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Ichthyoplankton Laboratory Technician – Sample Processing & Field Support

LynkerSan Diego, CAMay 17th, 2026
Lynker is seeking to hire an Ichthyoplankton Laboratory Technician - Sample Processing & Field Support to support a long-term federal fisheries and ecosystem science support program with NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). This is a full-time position anticipated to begin upon contract award. Hiring for this position will be contingent on contract award. Lynker will be operating under its FLOAT joint venture.This program supports fisheries stock assessments and ecosystem monitoring efforts through laboratory and field collection of ichthyoplankton and biological survey data. Scientific staff support long-term ocean observing and fisheries research programs, including California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI) surveys conducted throughout the California Current ecosystem.The Ichthyoplankton Laboratory Technician - Sample Processing & Field Support will support laboratory processing and field collection of ichthyoplankton samples used in stock assessments and ecosystem monitoring.Duties of the Ichthyoplankton Laboratory Technician will include the followingSort plankton samples and identify target taxaCount and measure specimens using microscopes and standard protocolsRecord all data on standardized data forms and submit for data entryPreserve, label, and organize sample vials and storage materialsSupport data analyses and literature reviews for scientific reportingDeploy and recover oceanographic equipment (e.g., CTDs, plankton nets) aboard research vesselsProcess biological samples during CalCOFI and other surveysCollect trawl catch composition and biological data for target speciesMaintain sample databases and documentation in accordance with protocolsPrepare monthly progress reportsThe Ichthyoplankton Laboratory Technician should have the followingBachelor’s degree in fisheries, oceanography, natural science, mathematics, hydrology, or a related field, plus one (1) year of relevant experience; or a combination of education and experience totaling five (5) yearsExperience using a microscope to sort plankton samplesExperience making measurements using laboratory instruments (e.g., ocular micrometer)Experience recording and managing scientific dataThe ideal Ichthyoplankton Laboratory Technician will have the followingExperience identifying fish eggs and larvae, particularly coastal pelagic speciesExperience in plankton sample collection and processing using standard protocols (e.g., CalCOFI methods)Experience processing fish from trawl surveys (e.g., length, weight, tissue sampling)Experience working aboard research vesselsExperience supporting scientific data analysis or manuscript preparationAbility to complete required medical clearances for fieldworkPlace of PerformanceOn-site at SWFSC in La Jolla, CA, with laboratory and vessel-based fieldwork.TravelTravel is required for participation in research cruises and field sampling activities.About LynkerLynker is a growing, employee owned business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities - creatively and effectively.Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the followingComprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly costHealthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and visionPersonal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidaysHighly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks401(k) retirement plan with company-matchingEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - we're all company owners!Flexible spending accountsEmployee assistance program (EAP)Short- and long-term disability insuranceLife and accident insuranceTuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per yearSpot bonuses for exceptional performanceAnnual Employee Recognition Awards with bonusesEmployee Referral ProgramFree centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pacePersonalized career growth plans for every employeeLynker is an E-Verify employer.Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws. This position is advertised through our joint venture, FISH and Lynker Ocean Alliance Team (FLOAT), a partnership between Lynker and Fisheries Immersed Sciences Hawaii (FISH) serving the NOAA ProTech Fisheries 2.0 IDIQ contracting vehicle.⚠️ Fraud Alert Recruitment Scam Warning Lynker has been made aware of fraudulent individuals posing as Lynker recruiters and offering fake job opportunities. All legitimate Lynker job postings are listed on our official careers page. Communication from Lynker recruiters will come from an official @lynker.com email address.