If you have ever wondered what it takes to turn a passion for fish, boats, and outdoor science into a real career, the new Fisheries Research Technician position at Auburn University offers a clear path forward. This full-time role centers on the population dynamics and management of freshwater catfish stocks across Alabama. It combines field surveys, laboratory sample processing, and teamwork with natural resource agency biologists. The position begins in fall 2026, pays between $35,000 and $55,910 per year with a strong benefits package, and requires only a bachelor’s degree in fisheries or the biological sciences. No prior professional experience is required.
The job sits within the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences and supports research led by Associate Professor Matt Catalano in the Quantitative Fisheries Lab. Catalano’s group specializes in population dynamics, stock assessment, and science-based management decisions. The technician will contribute directly to understanding how catfish populations respond to harvest, environmental conditions, and management actions. For anyone eyeing graduate school, the posting explicitly values a strong desire to pursue an M.S. degree in fisheries, making this an ideal bridge between undergraduate training and advanced research.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: USA
- Host University: Auburn University
- Qualification: BA/BSc/HND
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Benefits: Salary range ($35,300–$55,910 depending on qualifications), etc.
Why Catfish Research Matters in Alabama
Alabama’s rivers and reservoirs support popular recreational and commercial fisheries for channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish. These species support anglers, commercial fishers, and local economies, yet managers still need better data on growth, age structure, recruitment, and mortality. Earlier Auburn studies on Lake Wilson and other Tennessee River reservoirs examined length limits, exploitation rates, and life-history differences among catfish species. The current project continues that tradition by collecting new field data and processing biological samples that feed into quantitative models.
Technicians play a central role in generating the high-quality data those models require. You will help run electrofishing surveys and net sampling, then process otoliths for age determination, examine diets, and assess gonads. Accurate aging and biological sampling turn raw catches into information managers can use. Working with agency biologists also means your results can influence real management decisions rather than remaining purely academic.
Day-to-Day Duties and the Skills You Will Build
The core responsibilities keep you outdoors and in the lab in roughly equal measure. Field work involves surveying fish populations with electrofishing gear and nets, often from boats on Alabama waters. You will operate and maintain trucks, boats, sampling gear, and laboratory equipment. Back on campus or at the research facilities, you process biological samples, including preparing and reading fish otoliths, analyzing diets, and examining reproductive organs.
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These tasks build highly transferable skills: boat handling, gear maintenance, precise sample processing, data recording, and teamwork under both direct and remote supervision. Desired (but not required) experience includes prior work with boats, nets, or similar field equipment and comfort collaborating in a team setting. Because the lab travels widely for professional activities, you may also gain exposure to meetings, agency partners, and broader fisheries networks.
The 40-hour-per-week schedule and competitive salary range ($35,300–$55,910 depending on qualifications) reflect the technical nature of the work and the value of reliable field support. Benefits further strengthen the package, making the role financially attractive for recent graduates.
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Who Should Apply and How This Role Fits Career Goals
Minimum qualifications are straightforward: an undergraduate degree in fisheries or the biological sciences. The ideal candidate shows genuine interest in fisheries management and population dynamics, works effectively both independently and in teams, and ultimately wants to pursue graduate study. This combination makes the position especially appealing to seniors or recent graduates who want paid experience that strengthens an M.S. application.
Auburn’s School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences ranks among the strongest programs of its kind. The Quantitative Fisheries Lab emphasizes rigorous field data collection paired with modeling and decision analysis. Supporting a project on Alabama catfish stocks places you inside an active research environment with clear links to state and regional management agencies. Many technicians in similar roles later transition into graduate assistantships, agency biologist positions, or related careers in natural resources.
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Application Process and Timeline
Applications close on August 13, 2026. The start date falls between September 1 and November 1, 2026. To apply, prepare a letter of interest, current CV, contact information for three references, and copies of transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable). Email these materials to Dr. Matt Catalano at mjc0028@auburn.edu. At the same time, complete the online application at the Auburn University jobs portal: https://jobs-auburn.icims.com/jobs/9773/research-assistant/job?mode=view.
For questions, contact Dr. Catalano by email (preferred) or telephone at 334-844-7366. The original posting appears on the Natural Resources Job Board hosted by Texas A&M: https://jobs.rwfm.tamu.edu/view-job/?id=117888. Reviewing the lab’s page and Catalano’s faculty profile will help you tailor your materials and demonstrate familiarity with the research focus.
Tips for a Strong Application
Highlight any coursework or undergraduate research related to fish biology, population ecology, statistics, or field methods. Describe experiences operating boats, handling nets, working outdoors in variable conditions, or processing biological samples. Emphasize teamwork, reliability under remote supervision, and long-term interest in fisheries management. In the letter of interest, connect your background to catfish or freshwater fisheries research and state your intention to pursue graduate study if that is your goal.
Because the position values motivation and potential as much as prior experience, clear writing and genuine enthusiasm can set an application apart. Submit materials well before the deadline so any follow-up questions can be addressed.
Broader Context for Fisheries Research Technician Careers
Fisheries research technician roles remain a common and valuable entry point into the profession. Similar positions appear regularly on agency, university, and nonprofit job boards across the United States. Many technicians later move into biologist, graduate-student, or management positions after gaining practical skills in sampling, data quality, and equipment operation. The Auburn opportunity stands out because of its focus on a high-profile statewide species group, competitive pay and benefits, and explicit support for those planning graduate school.
Readers interested in related opportunities can monitor the American Fisheries Society Career Center, state natural-resource agency listings, and university job boards. Resources such as the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences main page provide ongoing information about research, facilities, and additional openings.
Take the Next Step
This Fisheries Research Technician position offers more than a paycheck. It provides direct experience collecting the data that shape management of Alabama’s freshwater catfish fisheries, places you inside an active quantitative research lab, and creates a natural pathway toward an M.S. degree. With a bachelor’s degree, motivation, and willingness to work in the field and lab, you can contribute to meaningful science while building a professional foundation.
Prepare your letter, CV, references, and transcripts, then submit them by August 13, 2026. Complete the online application, reach out to Dr. Catalano with any questions, and position yourself for a fall 2026 start. Opportunities that combine solid compensation, hands-on research, and clear career progression do not appear every day. This one is open now.