Malacologist

A Malacologist at EnviroScience is responsible for conducting field research, monitoring mollusk populations, and providing expertise in malacology to support environmental consulting efforts. The role requires extensive fieldwork, taxonomic expertise, and collaboration with regulatory agencies and environmental organizations. The candidate will focus on endangered or threatened species, particularly freshwater mussels and snails, and contribute to the development of conservation strategies to protect these species and their habitats.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Field Research & Sampling

• Conduct field surveys for freshwater mollusks and other aquatic species, primarily mussels and snails, using standardized protocols.
• Perform species identification, population assessments, and habitat evaluations in aquatic environments (rivers, lakes, streams).
• Collect biological samples for lab analysis, ensuring proper handling and documentation.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze survey data and prepare detailed reports for internal use, clients, and regulatory agencies.
• Maintain and update species databases and GIS mapping tools to track mollusk distributions.
• Interpret scientific data to support conservation strategies and environmental impact assessments.

Regulatory Compliance & Collaboration

• Ensure compliance with state and federal environmental regulations, including the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Clean Water Act (CWA).
• Collaborate with environmental agencies, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders to protect vulnerable mollusk species and their habitats.
• Participate in public outreach efforts and educational programs related to mollusk conservation.
• Report annual field activities to various federal and state agencies as-required

Project Management

• Lead and oversee projects focused on mollusk conservation and habitat restoration.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful completion of environmental initiatives.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including biologists, hydrologists, and environmental engineers, to execute field research and mitigation projects.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, malacology, or a related field.
• Experience: 2+ years of experience in aquatic biology or malacology, with an emphasis on freshwater mussels and/or snails.
• Currently posses or have the ability to possess scientific collection permits

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience:

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in malacology, biology, ecology, or a related field.
• Experience with endangered species research or environmental consulting.
• Federal Endangered Species Act Section 10 recovery permit for mollusk and aquatic species in the U.S.
• Certifications in scuba diving or other aquatic fieldwork skills.
• Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) for mapping species distributions.
• Previous experience working with federal and state regulatory agencies.
• Experience conducting fieldwork in aquatic environments, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and wading.
• Proficiency in species identification and familiarity with regional mollusk species.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and wildlife laws (e.g., ESA, CWA).

Desired Skills:

• Excellent taxonomic identification skills for freshwater mussels and snails.
• Proficient in data collection and statistical analysis, with strong attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Problem-solving abilities in fieldwork logistics and project management.
• Strong collaborative skills for working with interdisciplinary teams and external partners.
• Strong boat operation and trailering skills
• Advanced certifications and experience in diving and dive gear maintenance.

Additional:

Department & Division: Marine Services

Exempt Status*: Exempt

Reports to**: Director of Marine Services

Works with Inside Company: Marine Services Staff, other PMs

Works with Outside Company: Clients

Working Conditions:

• Regular travel primarily during the summer and fall months (May-October) with routine extended deployments.
• Be prepared for long hours, weekend work, and strenuous fieldwork in various weather conditions.
• Supervisor Responsibilities: Project management of field staff assigned to the project

Physical Requirements:

Travel Requirements:

• Valid driver's license and ability to travel for fieldwork.
• Ability to travel extensively during the summer and fall, with routine extended deployments.

*This position is classified as exempt based on the job duties.

**The company reserves the right to make changes to the reporting structure for this position due to business needs.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)