Research Operations & Safety Manager

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Conservation department implements an ambitious annual roster of field research projects to meet the goals of our institutional Conservation Action Plan and in support more broadly of the Aquarium’s strategic plan, An Aquarium Without Walls. The Research Operations & Safety Manager is a critical support staff position, working across the project portfolio and playing a critical role in ensuring the success of the Research Staff during field activities. The position also oversees logistical elements of field work, management of field data, and training and supervision of seasonal fieldwork staff, including undergraduate research interns. In this capacity, this position is responsible for annual recruitment, training, mentoring, and oversight of these student interns, ensuring positive and educational field experiences while also achieving project goals. This position works closely with all research project leads to support their activities, including participating in field and lab work when needed. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Manages lab and field logistics (scheduling, staffing, use of equipment, vehicles, boats, etc.) 

• Responsible for development and implementation of safety procedures for lab and field activities, including staff training and provision of related equipment/supplies 

• Manages and maintains field and lab equipment, including procurement, repairs, organization 

• Oversees data, QA/QC, metadata/storage/sharing (supported by Program Assistant) 

• Maintains laboratory records, supplies, equipment, and lab security 

• Manages all samples collected for laboratory processing once onsite at TMA, including inventory, storage, and prioritization/scheduling, including procurement and maintenance of storage facilities/equipment (e.g., freezers) 

• Supervises 1 full-time direct report (Program Assistant) and part-time/seasonal research staff (interns and technicians) 

• Supports lab sample processing and field research, as needed 

QUALIFICATIONS  

Education and Work Experience    

• 5+ years of experience in field and/or laboratory research preferred 

• Bachelor’s degree in related field required 

• Experience managing people and working with students required  

• Experience managing data required 

• Experience managing ecological field equipment and laboratory equipment required 

• Experience managing logistics for mid-sized teams preferred 

Knowledge and Skills   

• Excellent written and oral communication skills required  

• Excellent organization skills required  

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Powerpoint, Outlook) required  

• Proficiency in R preferred 

• Knowledge of Long Island Sound species and habitats required 

• Must be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions, including on boats and in mud, and able to carry 35+ pounds over uneven terrain during field research  

• Must be able to work collaboratively, work independently, and multi-task  

• Strong leadership skills with proven ability to accept and delegate responsibility as well as organize tasks and people  

• Must be able to reliably commute to the Aquarium and to partner meetings and field sites throughout Connecticut and New York 

The typical work schedule will be 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday from 9am – 5pm, but weekend, early morning, and evening work will be required for fieldwork and other department activities with advance notice. 

SALARY: $32-34 per hour plus benefits. 

START DATE: July 1, 2026 (Negotiable)