Staff Biologist - Coral Reef Restoration - Keys

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, maintenance, and production of in situ (offshore) and ex situ (land-based) coral nurseries, and assist with coral reef restoration fieldwork including outplanting, monitoring, and research activities. Location: Summerland Key, FL Full Time We will continue to receive and review applications until the position is filled. More Information Primary Duties: Extensive in situ (offshore) and ex situ (land-based) coral nursery maintenance, husbandry, and propagation. 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. Record and maintain precise coral inventory across all nursery sites. Assist with data collection and data entry. Maintain close and consistent communication with direct and indirect department supervisors. Be and remain a collegial member of Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration Research Program team. Additional duties will include assisting with various tasks related to the daily operation of a full-service marine laboratory. Assisting with field and lab support to visiting scientists. Working with and assisting in the training of volunteers. Assisting with outreach and education activities as needed, including interviews, tours, and workshops. Minimum Qualifications or Requirements S. degree in the marine or biological sciences from an accredited college or university. Nationally recognized SCUBA certification (Rescue Diver certification required within 3 months of hire; 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 50 lbs. Ability to work primarily outdoors in high heat and fluctuating weather conditions. Working knowledge of basic computer software (Windows, Word, Excel). Ability to adapt to changing environments, work independently with minimal supervision, and demonstrate strong practical problem-solving skills. 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 (g., MatLab, SPSS, SAS, R) Working Hours This is a full-time position requiring weekend and holiday availability to support Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration & Research mission. To Apply: Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2025 Staff Biologist – Coral Reef Restoration” 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 All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.