Behavioral Science Research Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Position Title:
Fisheries Research Technicians
Job Category:
University Staff
Employment Type:
Temporary (Fixed Term)
Job Profile:
Research Technician
Job Duties:
The Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit (WICFRU) is seeking fisheries research technicians who will assist WICFRU research scientists and graduate students on projects evaluating:
1) effects of front-facing sonar on angler catch rates of walleye;
2) behavior blue suckers, shovelnose sturgeon, and lake sturgeon after trap-and-transfer above Prairie du Sac Dam (lowermost dam on Wisconsin River);
3) movements of walleye, lake whitefish, muskellunge, and smallmouth bass in Green Bay; and,
4) 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

• Collects data and monitors test results according to established research requirements and specifications

• Inspects and maintains equipment, supplies, inventory, and facility spaces

• Reviews data to summarize results for presentations or reporting

• Performs lab and/or field test materials and samples according to established research requirements and specifications. Performs lab or field tests

Department:
The Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit has been an integral part of fisheries and aquatic science research and education since its inception in 1971. The unit 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.
Our objectives are to:

• conduct world-class fisheries and aquatic science research of interest to cooperators;
• educate and train students at the Master's degree level in fisheries and aquatic sciences;
• and provide extension services in fisheries and aquatic resource management.

Our Unit has a special interest in understanding how ecosystem processes are altered by anthropogenic activities having conducted several multidisciplinary projects assessing linkages between aquatic and terrestrial environments, and how to conserve genetic resources across landscapes.
Visit our Federal Webpage for more information.
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 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)

How to Apply:
TO ENSURE CONSIDERATION: Applications received by 2/1/2026 are ensured full consideration. Applications received after that date may be given consideration at the discretion of the search committee. Application materials will be evaluated, and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. Incomplete and/or late application materials may not receive consideration.
Files must be complete to be considered. Submission in PDF format is preferred for all attachments. Please include the following documents:
- Cover letter addressing qualifications and experience
- Resume/CV
- Contact information for 3 professional references
- Unofficial transcripts
After you submit your application, you are unable to edit it, so please be sure to include all application materials.
Contact Information:
Name: Dan Dembkowski, Fisheries Research Scientist, Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit
Email: dan.dembkowski@uwsp.edu
If you have any questions regarding the application process, need special arrangements, or if you submitted your application with missing materials, please call or email:
Human Resources
Email: human.resources@uwsp.edu
Phone: 715-346-2606
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e., a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment. UW-Stevens Point does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position
Employment will require a criminal background check. It will also require you to supply three (3) professional references/one (1) of which being a current or former supervisor. (Preference to supply five (5) professional references/two (2) of which being a current or former supervisors.) Your references will be required to answer questions regarding misconduct, sexual violence and sexual harassment.
Special Notes:
Through the discovery and dissemination of knowledge, UW-Stevens Point stimulates intellectual growth, provides a liberal education, and prepares students for a diverse sustainable world. The university is committed to creating a safe, inclusive learning community for all faculty and staff from a variety of backgrounds. Visit https://www.uwsp.edu/join-uw-stevens-point/ for more information about UW-Stevens Point. To learn about the Stevens Point (aka Point) area fun, jobs, housing, education, quality of life, and bragging rights, visit www.stevenspointarea.com.
Individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources and Affirmative Action at 715-346-2606 or hr@uwsp.edu.
The safety and success of students, faculty, and staff at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is paramount. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires the distribution of an annual security report to all current and prospective students, faculty, and staff. You may obtain the complete report at https://www3.uwsp.edu/protsv/Pages/Clery.aspx
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
An offer of employment will require a criminal background check and authorization to work within the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.
UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer:
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.