Job Description
The Guam Coral Reef Initiative (GCRI) is seeking applicants for a Reef Restoration Biologist position to support coral reef restoration activities. The Reef Restoration Biologist will perform the following duties:
- Assist in the expansion and maintenance of two coral nurseries
- Assist with coral husbandry, coral growth measurements, coral health/bleaching inspections, nursery structure maintenance, coral outplanting, and general day-to-day operations
- Plan fieldwork trips, prepare gear and supplies, and manage equipment and tools
- Perform coral reef monitoring and management activities, which include documenting bleaching and disease outbreaks, crown-of-thorns sea star mitigation, marine debris removal, photogrammetry, etc.
- Manage data, perform analyses, and write reports
- Collect and annotate photos to identify corals, algae, and invertebrates using CoralNet
- Design and implement independent research projects or experiments to support nursery performance and restoration goals
- Assist with the development, implementation, and updating of coral management plans and projects (e.g., local coral reef restoration action plan, drone imagery project, etc.)
- Plan and conduct education and outreach activities for various community events
- Participate in various agency outreach events, participation includes logistical setup and providing educational, interactive activities for community members
- Participate in working groups and partnerships
- Other duties as assigned
This is a full-time position with an anticipated (but flexible) start date in July 2026. This position is currently funded for three years. This position is expected to be 60% office/telework and 40% fieldwork but may vary depending on conditions and project needs. The Reef Restoration Biologist will be employed at the Guam Department of Agriculture as a Biologist II (Grade M, Step 1). The position will be hired through normal Government of Guam hiring practices as a limited-term appointment under the Government of Guam job classification as a Biologist II. This position is funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF).
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife management, or a related field
- Two years of experience in coral reef restoration, management, research, or a related field
- Basic knowledge of coral reef ecology
- Advanced SCUBA certification with a minimum of 30 logged dives
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Demonstrated proficiency in professional writing
- Able and willing to SCUBA dive and/or snorkel in ocean environments multiple times per week
- Able to safely lift and carry at least 35 pounds
- Able to pass a swim test
- Valid driver’s license
- Able to pass a medical examination, drug screening, and police/court clearance
- Must be a United States citizen or otherwise legally permitted to work in the U.S.
- Must be located in Guam or willing to relocate to Guam upon hiring
Other Desired Qualifications
- Experience with in-situ coral identification in the Indo-Pacific region
- Experience using CoralNet, CPCe, or other photo annotation software
- Rescue Diver or equivalent certification from an internationally recognized SCUBA training organization
- Scientific diver training and experience
- Experience using CoralWatch or similar citizen science tools
- Training or experience in R
- Proficiency in GIS software
- Previous experience in outreach and education
- Experience with photogrammetry
- Small boat handling and trailering experience
- First Aid, CPR, and Emergency Oxygen Provider certifications
Location: Guam
Salary: $49,730/year
Application deadline: May 15, 2026
