Fisheries Research Technicians

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point; Stevens Point (WI); On-site; USD 20,664 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is seeking Fisheries Research Technicians to assist in projects related to walleye and lake sturgeon research. This temporary full-time position starts around April 1, 2026, lasting approximately six months. Key responsibilities include data collection, equipment maintenance, and possible independent research.

The ideal candidates will have a B.S. in Fisheries, experience with field gears, and must maintain a satisfactory driving record. Compensation is set at $18.00/hour for up to 1039 hours.

Qualifications

• Avid angler preference for front-facing sonar project.
• Satisfactory driving record as defined by UW-Stevens Point policy.

Responsibilities

• Assist with literature reviews and/or report writing.
• Collect data and monitor test results.
• Inspect and maintain equipment and inventory.
• Review data to summarize results.
• Perform lab and/or field tests.

Skills

Experience with standard fisheries field gears and lab techniques

Experience operating and maintaining boats, motors, and field equipment

Positive attitude with strong work ethic

Education

B.S. in Fisheries or a closely related field

Job description

Position Title

Fisheries Research Technicians

Job Category

University Staff

Employment Type

Temporary (Fixed Term)

Job Profile

Research Technician

About the Unit

The Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit (WICFRU) has been an integral part of fisheries and aquatic science research and education since its inception in 1971. It is a cooperation between the U.S. Geological Survey, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources.

Job Duties

The WICFRU is seeking fisheries research technicians who will assist WICFRU research scientists and graduate students on projects evaluating:

• effects of front‑facing sonar on angler catch rates of walleye;
• behavior of blue suckers, shovelnose sturgeon, and lake sturgeon after trap‑and‑transfer above Prairie du Sac Dam (lowermost dam on Wisconsin River);
• movements of walleye, lake whitefish, muskellunge, and smallmouth bass in Green Bay; and,
• latent mortality of walleye and lake whitefish discarded from commercial and recreational fisheries in Green Bay.

Technicians may also have the opportunity to work on an independent research project and contribute to additional research projects focused on panfish, muskellunge, lake sturgeon, smallmouth bass, and lake whitefish.

The scope of these positions includes hook‑and‑line angling, assistance with surgical implantation of electronic transmitters, construction and maintenance of telemetry equipment, operation of standard fish sampling gears including fyke nets, boat electrofishing units, and seines, and maintenance of boats, motors, and other field equipment.

Duties will require extensive field work that may include working in poor weather conditions (cold and wet). Duties may require extended travel and overnight stays in field stations and/or hotels. Housing may be provided depending on project and field station availability.

This is a temporary full‑time appointment, beginning around April 1, 2026, and lasting for about six (6) months.

Key Job Responsibilities

• May assist with literature reviews and/or report writing.
• Collect data and monitor test results according to established research requirements and specifications.
• Inspect and maintain equipment, supplies, inventory, and facility spaces.
• Review data to summarize results for presentations or reporting.
• Perform lab and/or field test materials and samples according to established research requirements and specifications.

Compensation

$18.00/hour; duration not to exceed 1039 hours (approximately 6 months at 40 hours per week).

Required Qualifications

• B.S. in Fisheries or a closely related field.
• Experience with standard fisheries field gears and lab techniques.
• Experience operating and maintaining boats, motors, and field equipment.
• For the front‑facing sonar project, preference will be given to avid anglers.
• Positive attitude with strong work ethic and desire for advancement in the fisheries field.
• A satisfactory driving record as defined by UW‑Stevens Point Transportation Services policy 6.1‑6.3 (an unsatisfactory record includes, but is not limited to, three or more moving violations and/or at‑fault accidents in the past two years, an Operation While Intoxicated (OWI)/Driving Under the Influence (DUI) citation within the last 12 months, or suspension or revocation of driver’s license).

Contact Information

Name: Dan Dembkowski, Fisheries Research Scientist, Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit

Email: [e-mail]

Human Resources Email: [e-mail]

Phone: 715‑346‑2606

Equal Opportunity Statement

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.