Staff Biologist - Islamorada

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Sarasota, FL, USA
Posted on Thursday, October 26, 2023

Mote Marine Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote Marine Laboratory participates in E-Verify.

 

Current open positions:

 

Postdoctoral Fellow, Seagrass Ecosystem Research

Guest Services Associate - Part Time

Operations Associate - Part Time

Communications Coordinator

Night Watchman

Staff Biologist – IC2R3

Staff Biologist - Islamorada

Staff Biologist – Key Largo

Florida Keys Volunteer Coordinator

 

Postdoctoral Fellow, Seagrass Ecosystem Research

Mote Marine Laboratory is seeking candidates for a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Seagrass Ecosystem Research.  Seagrass Ecosystems are critically important to Florida’s ecology and economy, serving vital functions for various fisheries, nursery habitats for a variety of keystone species, sediment stabilization, absorbing nutrients, and coastal resilience.  This position will assist in the development of cutting-edge propagation and out-planting technologies, establishing the research structure for ensuring the most genetically resilient seagrass strains are utilized in restoration (similar to Mote’s proven success with coral research and restoration), bringing together the best and brightest scientists and practitioners to collaborate on science-based solutions (similar to Mote’s proven success under the Florida Red Tide Mitigation and Technology Development Initiative), serve as the hub for innovative applied restoration research (similar to the Protect Our Reefs Grant Program), and act as a conduit to education/outreach statewide managed areas in need of seagrass restoration.

Mote is celebrating over 68 years as one of the few remaining independent, non-profit international marine research laboratories. The Mote research enterprise has more than 25 diverse research programs, an array of education/outreach programs, and an aquarium featuring working laboratories with more than 100 marine species.  Mote currently has almost 300 staff and 1500 volunteers that are located on its main campus in Sarasota and across seven additional campuses/facilities including a state-of-the-art 200 acre marine and freshwater aquaculture research park, a 19,000 square foot International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in the Florida Keys and work is underway for the over 100,000 square foot Science Education Aquarium.

The Mote scientific expertise is considerable and diverse, and is augmented by approximately 150 non-resident scientists from over 100 different U.S. and international institutions who are involved in projects at Mote.  In addition, more than 70 non-resident scientists from around the world have been appointed as Adjunct Mote Scientists due to their significant level of sustained collaboration with Mote scientists and regular use of Mote facilities to conduct their research.

Mote envisions significant growth of its Seagrass Ecosystem Research Program as part of the evolution of its current Sarasota campus into an International Marine Science, Technology and Innovation Park, continued expansion of the Mote Aquaculture Research Park, and stand up of satellite campuses/facilities along the Florida coral reef.  The position also affords the opportunity for hosting of visiting scientists, interactions with scientists from multiple disciplines at Mote, and oversight of student interns and volunteers. Postdoctoral Fellows are selected based on their ability to not only strengthen and diversify the laboratory’s significant existing research expertise, but also the potential to establish their own innovative research initiatives that address Mote’s Beyond 2020 Vision & Strategic Plan.

 

Recent (after 2020) PhD graduates are invited to apply.  Applicants with a firm expectation of graduation by Spring 2024 will be considered. This full-time position includes an annual salary of $60,000 -$70,000, health insurance with family options, and benefits include an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits. The Postdoctoral Fellow will also have an established researcher assigned to serve as a Mentor and will receive office/laboratory space at the Mote Aquaculture Research Park in Sarasota, and funds for startup, operations, and travel. The Fellowship will be for a period of three years assuming appropriate annual progress and exemplary Fellows may be invited to join Mote as a Staff Scientist upon completion of their initial three-year appointment.

Interested applicants should submit electronic files in pdf format including:

Cover letter addressed to Kevin Claridge, Vice President of Sponsored Research and Coastal Policy, of interest including present employment status
Academic transcript of doctoral studies
Copy of PhD if achieved, and expected graduation date.
Curriculum vitae
Two-page essay, excluding references and exhibits, describing intended research and mentors.
Three representative journal publications, in press or published
Names and contact information for three references

Applications should be submitted by selecting “2023 Postdoctoral Fellow, Seagrass Ecosystem Research” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or by mailing a single package to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. 

Review of applications will begin November 1, 2023 and will close when filled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category. We are interested in every qualified candidate who eligible to legally work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time. Questions regarding this position may be sent to Kevin Claridge, Vice President of Sponsored Research and Coastal Policy Programs at kclaridge@mote.org. 

 

Guest Services Associate - Part Time

The Guest Services Associate serves as the first point of contact for Mote Aquarium guests.  This position is responsible for facilitating ticket and membership sales, greeting and assisting guests with entry, cashiering and assisting guests at our Fossil Creek area, cashiering and assisting guests at our virtual reality experience, and providing other services to give our guests a great experience during their visit.  Qualified applicants will have basic computer skills, cashier experience, and enjoy working with the public.

Job Responsibilities

  • Greet every guest in a friendly manner
  • Accurately conduct transactions using cash, credit cards, checks, coupons, and vouchers
  • Work with the point of sale system to sell and renew memberships and update membership information
  • Connect with our guests to provide the best possible experience by suggesting exhibits, providing safety information and helping to resolve any issues that may occur.
  • Assist guests at our virtual reality experience by informing them how to sit, put on their headset, and setting up the experience
  • Assist guests at our Fossil Creek area by informing them how to sift through the sand and identify the fossils, as well as sell pond fish food
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work space
  • Perform assigned opening and closing duties
  • Preparing and stocking Fossil Creek materials and merchandise

 

Working Hours:

Normal working hours are 9 am to 5 pm. Must be available to work weekends and holidays.  

 

Experience:

Previous cash handling and guest service experience preferred.

 

To Apply:

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Guest Services Associate”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236, or send a letter of interest and resume to HumanResources@mote.org before 5pm November 1, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

 

Operations Associate - Part Time

Mote’s Education Outreach Center on Anna Maria City Pier 

The Operations Associate will provide an engaging and educational visitor experience by assisting the Center’s team. This role is an entry-level position that spans three operational domains including guest services, aquarium biologist, and retail duties. Applicants should have an interest in animal husbandry, biology, and public interaction.

 

Tasks:

1. Guest Services

  • Greet all guests with a smile and friendly demeanor
  • Provide interesting and helpful information on Mote’s research and public outreach programs
  • Professionally answer guest inquiries and handle requests or complaints
  • Responsible for opening and closing procedures, including daily cleaning duties of the Center
  • Sell, renew, and promote memberships, Adopt-an-Animal, and other fundraising programs to guests
  • Perform any other customer relation duties; including emergency assistance and safety procedures

2. Aquarium Biologist

  • Responsible for the daily husbandry of animals; including preparation of diets, observation and recording of daily/medical care, maintenance of animal exhibit space
  • Communicate daily husbandry activities with staff and volunteers
  • Assists with life support and water quality of exhibits as needed; including filter changes, handling of chemicals, performing water quality tests, gravel vacuuming, and water changes
  • Potential to work independently during times of coverage, such as sick or vacation times

3. Retail

  • Replenish inventory on the sales floor
  • Receive and handle merchandise payment by credit card
  • Maintain cleanliness of the retail area and front desk displays
  • Maintain knowledge of policies regarding returns or exchanges, sales or promotions, and retail loss prevention practices
  • Respond to requests for assistance promptly

 

Skills:

  • Able to work independently or as a team
  • Possess time management and organizational skills
  • Public speaking and communication skills
  • Customer skills such as critical thinking and active listening
  • Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, behavior, and exhibit quality

 

Working Hours: Normal hours are 9:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m., with one unpaid hour for lunch and will include weekend and holiday hours. Occasional longer daily hours or evening hours may be required to complete specific tasks.

 

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree (or working towards one) in Marine Science, Biology, or related field preferred OR equivalent combination of related work experience preferred
  • First- Aid/CPR/AED certified or ability to obtain certification within 3 months of hire

 

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to lift up to 50lbs occasionally
  • Able to walk, stand, bend, or crouch for extended periods of time
  • Capable of working around bleach or other sanitizing chemicals
  • Tolerance working with wet hands, feet and clothes regularly

 

Experience: Animal care employment, internships, or volunteering experience in a public, aquarium, zoo, or related institution preferred.

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Operations Associate – Anna Maria”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm November 1, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

 

Communications Coordinator

About the Company:

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has a nearly 70-year legacy as an independent, nonprofit, 501(c)3 global marine research and science education institution. Mote began in 1955 and flourished on the foundational pillars of “Passion, Partnership and Philanthropy” -  the passion of a single researcher, Dr. Eugenie Clark, her partnership with the community and philanthropic support, first of the Vanderbilt family, later with the significant support and guidance of the William R. Mote family, and today through donations by thousands of individuals who believe in the mission of Mote.

Today, Mote has grown into eight campuses stretching from Tampa Bay to Key West, with a ninth new campus, the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA), currently under construction. Mote has more than 25 diverse world-class research programs studying oceans locally and internationally, with an emphasis on positively impacting conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. The current Mote Aquarium in Sarasota showcases Mote Research and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 pm, 365 days a year. Learn more at mote.org.

 

Job Description:

This is a full-time position within the Community Relations & Communications department of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. The Communications Coordinator supports the department’s activities for Mote divisions and programs and the institutional goals of: 1) promoting Mote as a world-class marine research institution, 2) generating attendance for Mote Aquarium and Mote Education programs and events; and 3) supporting Mote’s fundraising efforts. This position supports and enhances the institution’s reputation, integrity and partnerships through strategic marketing and public relations efforts. This role is responsible for managing the image of the organization by developing strategies to increase its brand awareness.

 

The focus of this position is roughly 80% public relations and 20% marketing.

 

Responsibilities include:

Public relations:

  • Work cross-departmentally to develop and maintain close internal relationships with all levels of staff in order to keep abreast of all aspects of the organization including new research studies, new and/or changing exhibits, education programs, events, fundraising campaigns, volunteer programs etc., with the goal of contributing to Mote’s public relations strategy.
  • Responsible for supporting the Marketing and Public Relations Manager in day-to-day planning and execution of Mote’s public relations goals, including fielding daily media requests
  • Responding to media requests in a timely manner
  • Cultivating strong relationships with media outlets and journalists to ensure efficient communication and maximum coverage.
  • Host press outlets and film crews on-site and in the field
  • Execute public relations best practices
  • Distill complex, scientific topics in easily digestible formats for general consumption
  • Identify and propose internal stories to help promote general awareness of Mote’s more than 25 research programs, education initiatives, Aquarium events and promotions, and fundraising campaigns to the media and general public.
  • Regularly attend networking events and represent Mote in a professional manner while highlighting Mote as an international marine research powerhouse and its Aquarium, which is the public outreach arms of its research.
  • Create a strategic content calendar and plan content ahead of time.
  • Monitor and interpret analytics to find data-driven improvement strategies for the performance of the department’s communications, including but not limited to monitoring media coverage and keeping a weekly log of all media coverage, and sharing the findings with management.

Promotional Plans:

  • Working directly with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager on planning promotional plans for various Aquarium events or fundraising campaigns, and then spearheading the execution of these strategically thought-out plans, including social media, email marketing, event listings, and public relations.

Email marketing:

  • Responsible for planning, executing, and optimizing email marketing campaigns, including Mote Insider, with the other Communications Coordinator on the team.

Social media:

  • With a high focus on a team work mentality and an emphasis on fostering talent growth, 20% of this position includes opportunities to be cross-trained in other communications areas such as social media.
  • This includes contributing content ideas, preparing stories, reels or posts, and answering direct messages/comments.

 

Major duties and responsibilities:

Works with Mote’s Community Relations & Communications (CRC) department and all other organizational departments to:

  • Develop and maintain close internal relationships with all levels of staff in order to keep abreast of all aspects of the organization including new research studies, new and/or changing exhibits, education programs, events, volunteer programs etc., with the goal of contributing to Mote’s overall communications strategy.
  • Work closely with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to develop public relations strategy utilizing Mote’s social media channels.
  • Identify and propose internal stories to help promote general awareness of Mote’s more than 25 research programs, education initiatives, Aquarium events and promotions, and fundraising campaigns to the media and general public.
  • Regularly attend networking events and represent Mote in a professional manner while highlighting Mote as an international marine research powerhouse and public Aquarium which aims to transfer and translate Mote’s complex scientific research to the general public to help encourage more environmental stewardship.
  • Maintain an up-to-date press list of journalists, influencers, and other members of the media.
  • Conduct media tours for bloggers and magazine writers, and work closely with marketing partners such as Visit Sarasota.
  • Monitor and interpret analytics to find data-driven improvement strategies for the performance of the department’s communications, including but not limited to monitoring media coverage and keeping a weekly log of all media coverage.
  • Collaborates closely with marketing-focused CRC staff to plan and implement campaigns aimed at increasing brand awareness.
  • Other duties as needed to support the other CRC staff.

 

Working Hours: Full-time position. Regular office hours, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., with the understanding that flexibility is required to provide events after hours and on weekends.

 

Minimum qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, marketing, or a relevant field.
  • At least 1 year of experience working in the public relations or communications industry.
  • Excellent knowledge of public relations best practices, brand management, and media strategies
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to simplify complex topics for a general audience, especially as Mote is first and foremost a research institution
  • Exceptional communication skills and the ability to collaborate with personnel and members of the media
  • Superb written skills and knowledge of press release style guides.
  • Solid organizational skills and the ability to work well in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Ability to juggle multiple priorities and tasks simultaneously
  • Creative and detail-oriented
  • Ability to work with staff, volunteers, and interns at all levels
  • Maintains a respectful attitude in the workplace
  • Knowledgeable in social media best practices
  • Ability to adjust between writing/editing methods for marketing and public relations, respectively
  • Can successfully work independently, but can also excel as a team player
  • Administrative skills such as proficiency with Microsoft Office, with the ability to adapt to the department’s preferred project management and other organizational systems

 

To Apply:

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Communications Coordinator” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm November 10, 2023.

 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Night Watchman

The Night Watchman at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s primary duties are to monitor and ensure the continued operation and upkeep of Aquarium Life Support mechanical systems and equipment related to sea-water distribution, including (but not limited to) pumps, motors, tanks, valves, ozone etc. They will be expected to make multiple rounds of the campus facilities to determine systems operation and security of buildings and equipment each shift. They will additionally provide after-hours access to campus and facilities as necessary for staff or during events, and work with night custodial staff as assigned.

Working Hours:

Overnight shifts, 4pm - 12am or 12am - 8am, including weekends and holidays.

Specific Duties:

  • Identify irregular or unusual conditions that may cause security concerns or safety hazards
  • Sound alarm or call police or fire department in case of fire or presence of unauthorized persons
  • Patrol and monitor the property to ensure it is secure
  • Collaborate with other team members to ensure that safety protocols are followed

 

Minimum Requirements:

  • Possess a valid Florida Driver's License, or obtain one within one month
  • Demonstrated ability to consistently and punctually report for assigned work schedule
  • Must be able to accomplish after-hours tasks with minimum supervision
  • Must be able to read, record and understand pressure gauges and metering equipment associated with aquarium Life Support Systems
  • Must possess a combination of skills, education, and or experience which enable completion of assigned tasks.
  • Must be able to identify irregular or unusual conditions that may cause security concerns or safety hazards
  • Must be willing to sound alarm or call police or fire department in case of fire or presence of unauthorized persons
  • Ability to identify critical issues quickly and accurately
  • Ability to remain calm and composed in high-stress situations

 

Education:

High school diploma or GED certificate desirable.

Physical:

  • Ability to work outside in all Florida weather conditions
  • Ability to spend the majority of the workday walking, standing, and bending.
  • Tolerance to work around noisy machinery & equipment
  • Tolerance for the smell of fish and animal feces
  • Capable of working around bleach and other sanitizing chemicals
  • Strength to operate valves and open pump baskets
  • Ability to work in tight spaces
  • Capable of climbing and working from ladders

 

Other Requirements:

Must interact courteously and tactfully with co-workers, managers, contractors & vendors. Good written communications for record keeping logs, notes and instructions to other shifts. Ability for working at outdoor locations which may include working in hot or cold, humid, rainy weather, etc.

 

To Apply:

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Night Watchman”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 or send a letter of interest and resume to HumanResources@mote.org before 5pm November 10, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

 

Staff Biologist – IC2R3

Location: Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration (IC2R3), Summerland Key, Florida

Primary Function: This position’s primary function is to actively support and participate in Mote’s coral reef restoration and research activities, assist with the husbandry and maintenance of in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) coral nurseries, and assist with coral reef restoration fieldwork including outplanting, monitoring, and research activities.

Primary Duties:

  • Extensive in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) nursery maintenance and coral husbandry.
  • Outplant nursery-grown corals to various reef restoration sites.
  • Conduct routine monitoring and photo-documentation of outplanted corals and restoration sites.
  • Construct and maintain nursery structures, lab, and field equipment.
  • Assist with field activities associated with Mote-led and Mote supported research projects.
  • Assist with data collection, data entry, and report writing.

Additional duties will include assisting with various tasks related to the daily operation of a full-service marine laboratory, assist with field and lab support to visiting scientists, and assist with outreach and education activities as needed including interviews, tours, and workshops.

Minimum Qualifications or Requirements

  • B.S. degree in the marine or biological sciences form an accredited college or university.
  • SCUBA certified (Rescue Diver certification required; divemaster or higher preferred).
  • Meet and maintain standards for AAUS Scientific Diver rating, including medical requirements.
  • Valid Florida driver’s license.
  • Ability to be an adaptable and collegial member of the team, self-motivated, and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Prior experience working in tropical marine ecosystems and identification of Caribbean corals.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects or equipment up to 50lbs occasionally.
  • Working knowledge of basic computer software (Windows, Word, Excel) required.
  • Ability to adapt to a changing environment, work independently on certain tasks with minimal direct supervision, and good practical problem-solving abilities.
  • Normal hours are 8am – 5pm; however, weekend, evening, and holiday hours will be required to support Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration & Research mission.

Preferred Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities

  • Extensive prior scientific diving experience strongly preferred
  • Prior experience with recirculating and flow-through seawater systems preferred
  • Prior coral nursery experience preferred
  • Ability and experience with operating small vessels up to 28’ LOA preferred (USCG Captain’s license strongly preferred)
  • Prior working experience with navigating coastal waters throughout the Florida Keys preferred.
  • Experience and working familiarity with common data management and statistical analysis software preferred (e.g., MatLab, SPSS, SAS, R)

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Staff Biologist – IC2R3”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm November 30, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Staff Biologist - Islamorada

Location: Mote’s Coral Nursery at Bud n Mary’s Marina, Islamorada, FL

Primary Function: This position’s primary function is to actively support and participate in Mote’s coral reef restoration and research activities, assist with the husbandry and maintenance of in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) coral nurseries, and assist with coral reef restoration fieldwork including outplanting, monitoring, and research activities.

Primary Duties:

  • Extensive in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) nursery maintenance and coral husbandry.
  • Outplant nursery-grown corals to various reef restoration sites.
  • Conduct routine monitoring and photo-documentation of outplanted corals and restoration sites.
  • Construct and maintain nursery structures, lab, and field equipment.
  • Assist with field activities associated with Mote-led and Mote supported research projects.
  • Assist with data collection, data entry, and report writing.

Additional duties will include assisting with various tasks related to the daily operation of a full-service marine laboratory, assist with field and lab support to visiting scientists, and assist with outreach and education activities as needed including interviews, tours, and workshops.

Minimum Qualifications or Requirements

  • B.S. degree in the marine or biological sciences form an accredited college or university.
  • SCUBA certified (Rescue Diver certification required; divemaster or higher preferred).
  • Meet and maintain standards for AAUS Scientific Diver rating, including medical requirements.
  • Valid Florida driver’s license.
  • Ability to be an adaptable and collegial member of the team, self-motivated, and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Prior experience working in tropical marine ecosystems and identification of Caribbean corals.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects or equipment up to 50lbs occasionally.
  • Working knowledge of basic computer software (Windows, Word, Excel) required.
  • Ability to adapt to a changing environment, work independently on certain tasks with minimal direct supervision, and good practical problem-solving abilities.
  • Normal hours are 8am – 5pm; however, weekend, evening, and holiday hours will be required to support Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration & Research mission.

Preferred Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities

  • Extensive prior scientific diving experience strongly preferred
  • Prior experience with recirculating and flow-through seawater systems preferred
  • Prior coral nursery experience preferred
  • Ability and experience with operating small vessels up to 28’ LOA preferred (USCG Captain’s license strongly preferred)
  • Prior working experience with navigating coastal waters throughout the Florida Keys preferred.
  • Experience and working familiarity with common data management and statistical analysis software preferred (e.g., MatLab, SPSS, SAS, R)

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Staff Biologist – Islamorada”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm November 30, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Staff Biologist – Key Largo

Location: Mote’s Key Largo coral nursery at Reefhouse Resort & Marina, Key Largo, Florida

Primary Function: This position’s primary function is to actively support and participate in Mote’s coral reef restoration and research activities, assist with the husbandry and maintenance of in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) coral nurseries, and assist with coral reef restoration fieldwork including outplanting, monitoring, and research activities.

Primary Duties:

  • Extensive in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) nursery maintenance and coral husbandry.
  • Outplant nursery-grown corals to various reef restoration sites.
  • Conduct routine monitoring and photo-documentation of outplanted corals and restoration sites.
  • Construct and maintain nursery structures, lab, and field equipment.
  • Assist with field activities associated with Mote-led and Mote supported research projects.
  • Assist with data collection, data entry, and report writing.

Additional duties will include assisting with various tasks related to the daily operation of a full-service marine laboratory, assist with field and lab support to visiting scientists, and assist with outreach and education activities as needed including interviews, tours, and workshops.

Minimum Qualifications or Requirements

  • B.S. degree in the marine or biological sciences form an accredited college or university.
  • SCUBA certified (Rescue Diver certification required; divemaster or higher preferred).
  • Meet and maintain standards for AAUS Scientific Diver rating, including medical requirements.
  • Valid Florida driver’s license.
  • Ability to be an adaptable and collegial member of the team, self-motivated, and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Prior experience working in tropical marine ecosystems and identification of Caribbean corals.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects or equipment up to 50lbs occasionally.
  • Working knowledge of basic computer software (Windows, Word, Excel) required.
  • Ability to adapt to a changing environment, work independently on certain tasks with minimal direct supervision, and good practical problem-solving abilities.
  • Normal hours are 8am – 5pm; however, weekend, evening, and holiday hours will be required to support Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration & Research mission.

Preferred Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities

  • Extensive prior scientific diving experience strongly preferred
  • Prior experience with recirculating and flow-through seawater systems preferred
  • Prior coral nursery experience preferred
  • Ability and experience with operating small vessels up to 28’ LOA preferred (USCG Captain’s license strongly preferred)
  • Prior working experience with navigating coastal waters throughout the Florida Keys preferred.
  • Experience and working familiarity with common data management and statistical analysis software preferred (e.g., MatLab, SPSS, SAS, R)

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Staff Biologist – Key Largo”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm November 30, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

 

Florida Keys Volunteer Coordinator

The Keys Volunteer Coordinator will work with the Volunteer and Intern Office staff, under the Director of Volunteer and Intern Resources and Associate Vice President for Education to support new and existing Mote volunteers at Mote facilities throughout the Keys. However, the incumbent will focus most of their time in the upper Keys on a daily basis with office space in Key Largo. Therefore, it is highly desirable for the successful candidate to reside in the Upper Keys or Homestead area in order to be nearby their primary duty station in Key Largo.  Job duties will include, but are not limited to:

  • Providing outstanding support and resources for Mote volunteers and interns
  • Assisting with managing the volunteer and intern database, record-keeping, communication, and other support activities in coordination with the Volunteer and Intern Office in Sarasota
  • Leading field- and land-based coral restoration activities, including dive trips with citizen scientists
  • Fielding phone calls, electronic communications and visits to answer questions about volunteer opportunities
  • Development, planning, execution and evaluation of volunteer training and volunteer performance
  • Liaising with Mote science staff to place, train and evaluate new volunteers
  • Assisting with communication of volunteer opportunities internally and throughout the community to recruit new volunteers
  • Developing and maintaining productive, positive relationships with the FL Keys staff, volunteers and interns

Knowledge, Skills, and other Characteristics

This candidate will possess outstanding communication skills, poise, and confidence, skilled in written and oral communication with the ability to represent Mote Marine Laboratory to a variety of audiences, and to train others to do so. They should have a strong commitment to customer service, sound judgment, an understanding of the challenges and opportunities of organizations with extensive volunteer engagement, and the determination to work towards a common purpose with skill in facilitating change.

  • Experience working with, recruiting, scheduling and managing volunteers
  • Experience in leading dive trips for participants with a range of experience levels in a variety of conditions
  • Preparation and electronic distribution of communications to a variety of audiences

Our ideal candidate is honest, caring, and professional with a strong work ethic and a contagious, positive energy. They are a giving team member, a creative and proactive problem solver, and an enthusiastic collaborator who believes deeply in Mote and its mission. 

Normal hours are 8:30-5:00 with 30-minute lunch break: Tuesday-Saturday; however, regularly flexible weekend and modified weekday hours will be required during a 40 hour work week.

 

Minimum Requirements:

  • College degree in biology, marine science, or related field
  • Experience working with volunteers ot college interns
  • Excellent verbal/written communication skills
  • SCUBA Divemaster Certification (or willingness and ability to obtain within 4 months of hire at own expense) and ability to SCUBA dive on a regular basis
  • AAUS Scientific Diver certification (or willingness and ability to obtain within 4 months of hire at own expense)
  • Strong computer skills including MS Access, Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Strong customer service experience
  • Florida driver’s license (or eligibility to obtain one upon arrival) and the ability to drive Mote service vehicles including pickup trucks
  • U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
  • Stamina for working occasional long hours at outdoor locations in hot/cold weather, high humidity, intense sunlight and wet weather while responsible for interns and volunteers

  

To Apply

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Upper Keys Volunteer Coordinator”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm November 24, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.