Location: Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, Bamfield, BC
Position Type: Casual position 20-37.5 hours / week
Reports to: Nursery Manager
Salary: Range of $54,000 – $60,000 Annually (commensurate with experience)
Application Deadline: Open until filled.
The Restoration and Nursery Technician will coordinate kelp culturing and kelp growth cycles in the BMSC nurseries, support decisions around kelp sourcing and outplanting, and assist with field activities such as sori collection, outplanting and ecological monitoring; both at the surface and through SCUBA-based work. They will work closely with the Deep Bay nursery technician and the broader BMSC and Baum team. The ideal candidate is scientifically grounded, results oriented, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively. They will bring strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence in both laboratory and field settings to help advance the mission of restoring kelp forests along BC’s coast.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Initiate, maintain and scale kelp cultures at BMSC, and, as needed, at Deep Bay Marine Station, in collaboration with the culturing and operations team.
- Coordinate lab operations, including spore release, culture initiation, media preparation and changes, water quality maintenance, contamination checks, and biobanking.
- Support preparation of kelp gametophytes for outplanting (e.g., tiles, spools).
- Contribute to optimizing kelp culturing, nursery and outplanting techniques through experimentation, literature review, and knowledge exchange with external experts; present recommendations to the KRI team.
- Isolate gametophytes and conduct targeted genetic crosses for genomic studies. § Help develop and refine standard kelp culturing protocols.
- Perform independent and team-based lab and fieldwork, including sterile techniques, DNA extractions, light microscopy and various assays.
- Participate in scientific dives to outplant and monitor kelp, collect samples, and measure site conditions.
- Keep detailed, accessible lab records and provide regular updates via reports and presentations.
- Assist with report writing and publications; optionally lead nursery experiments and related publications.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- in Biology, Environmental Science, or related discipline
- Previous course work with phycology or similar experiences
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Proficiency with standard computer tools (email, word processing, spreadsheets, Zoom, Slack)
- Ability to work independently and solve problems with minimal supervision in lab and some field settings
- Experience working in geographically dispersed or collaborative teams
- Valid BC driver’s license
- Flexible availability, including occasional early mornings, evenings, and weekends
- Satisfactory Criminal Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Excellent time management and ability to prioritize tasks independently
- SVOP certification (including valid First Aid, MED A3, SDV-BS, ROC-M)
- Experience trailering and launching small boats (up to 20’)
- Scientific Diver certification (CAUS Level 1 or AAUS equivalent)
- Previous experience with aquarium or aquaculture systems
- Comfortable working in adverse weather conditions for extended periods
- Previous experience at remote research stations
- Strong communication skills for both technical and general audiences
TO APPLY:
Applications, including CV and Cover Letter, can be sent to BMSC Human Resources at: hr@bamfieldmsc.com
BMSC is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. As we are located in a remote area, we understand that additional considerations may be needed during the hiring process. We’re committed to providing accommodations at every stage, in accordance with the British Columbia Employment Standards Act (ESA). If you need any support or adjustments during the process, please reach out to our Human Resources team. All requests will be handled with care and confidentiality.