JOBSEARCHER

Ichthyoplankton Scientist – Chief Scientist Support - Level II

LynkerSan Diego, CAMay 17th, 2026
Lynker Corporation is seeking to hire an Ichthyoplankton Scientist - Chief Scientist & Survey Operations 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 Scientist will support advanced laboratory analysis and survey coordination activities, including serving as Chief Scientist on fisheries and ecosystem monitoring surveys. This role includes coordination of survey operations, oversight of scientific staff, and management of sample collection and processing activities supporting fisheries stock assessments and ecosystem monitoring.Duties of the Ichthyoplankton Scientist will include the followingPerform all Level I laboratory and field sampling tasksServe as Chief Scientist on CalCOFI and related surveysPlan and coordinate station activities to meet scientific objectivesCommunicate with the vessel bridge and coordinate ship operationsServe as liaison between ship crew, scientific staff, and Principal InvestigatorsCoordinate onboarding and offloading of scientific equipment and suppliesSchedule scientific staff and manage shift operations during surveysEnsure adherence to sampling protocols and data collection standardsOversee sample processing, identification, counting, and measurement activitiesSupport data analyses and contributions to scientific studies and reportsPrepare monthly progress reportsThe Ichthyoplankton Scientist should have the followingBachelor’s degree plus three (3) years of relevant experience; Master’s degree plus two (2) years of relevant experience; or Ph.D. in a related fieldExperience using a microscope to sort fish eggs, larvae, and plankton samplesExperience making biological measurements using laboratory instrumentsExperience identifying fish eggs and larvae, particularly coastal pelagic speciesExperience in plankton sample collection and processing using standard protocolsExperience processing fish from trawl surveys (e.g., biological sampling and measurements)The ideal Ichthyoplankton Scientist will have the followingExperience serving in a Chief Scientist or similar leadership role on research surveysExperience coordinating scientific staff and at-sea operationsExperience working aboard research vesselsExperience supporting stock assessments or ecosystem monitoring programsExperience contributing to scientific publications or technical reportsAbility to complete required medical clearances for fieldworkPlace of PerformanceOn-site at SWFSC in La Jolla, CA, with laboratory work and vessel-based survey participation.TravelTravel is required for research cruises and field sampling operations.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.