Description

Are you passionate about entomology, public health, and hands-on laboratory work? We’re seeking a dedicated Insectary Technician to join our team and support the maintenance and development of mosquito colonies used in critical testing, evaluation, and public education. In this role, you’ll help sustain Field Validation mosquito colonies, establish new strains as needed for research, produce larvae for Public Information & Education programs, and assist the Applied Science & Technology Field Validation staff in operational research on mosquito control methods and products. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to innovative mosquito control efforts that protect public health and advance scientific understanding.

Essential Functions

Assists the AST Research Director in the performance of her/his duties
Maintains colonies of a variety of mosquito species for use in bioassays of new products, formulations, and PI&E for classroom teaching exercises
Produces colony larval or adult mosquitoes for field validations as needed
Maintain field collected larvae, to allow proper development in preparation for larval and adult bioassays following established protocols
Communicates with Aerial inspectors and Mosquito Control Biologist II on a regular basis regarding 1st or 2nd instar mosquito larvae breeding sites
Collects 2nd instar mosquito larvae from the field and transfers them to the larval insectary
Participates in leading tours of the insectary and outreach events relevant to insectary operations
Maintains mosquito fish, including cleaning tanks, feeding fish, and restocking the population as needed
Records data in laboratory notebooks and enters data into project databases
Performs a variety of maintenance duties as needed to keep insectary operational
Purchases supplies and maintain vendor records pertaining to insectary operations
Assists in field validation activities related to insectary operations
Responsible for completing his/her timecard on a daily basis
Responsible for submitting all Time-Off Requests as soon as he/she knows they will be absent, late or leaving early
Responsible for ensuring timecard is correct and approved by 8:00 a.m. on payroll Mondays
Refuels and washes vehicle at the end of the shift
Communicate with the public in a professional and courteous manner and refers all inquiries outside area of expertise to the most appropriate person at the District
Follows District Safety policies and procedures and complies with all local, state and federal regulations at all times
Ensures that all assigned equipment is maintained and repaired as needed
Regular and predictable attendance is essential
Other duties and projects as assigned

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a biological field from an accredited college or university preferred
Must have basic computer skills
Must have the ability to ride in helicopters
Must be able to work a varied schedule including weekend, nighttime, and holiday hours as needed
Must be able to read and understand technical instructions in English
Must have a valid FL Class E Drivers License with a clean driving record
Must pass the CORE and Public Health exams within six months of hire and be able to maintain certification by earning appropriate CEUs (continuing education units)
Must have pleasant interpersonal and communication skills when engaging the public about insectary operations