Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Sample Sorter Position

Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Biological Monitoring Program

The Maine DEP Biological Monitoring Program has current openings for lab assistants to process aquatic macroinvertebrate samples collected from rivers, streams and freshwater wetlands.  Work is performed at the Department of Environmental Protection in either Portland or Augusta in a laboratory setting.  Work involves sorting macroinvertebrates from substrate material collected with the sample (detritus, sand, algae, etc.) to prepare organisms for identification by a professional taxonomist.  Data are used to determine if waterbodies meet State water quality criteria.  Work includes accurately and neatly recording information on a lab bench sheet, labeling sample containers with pertinent information to identify and track samples, tracking time spent on each sample, and performing quality assurance checks.

Candidates should have some education and/or experience in biology or environmental science.  Previous experience related to aquatic invertebrates is desirable, but not required.  Successful candidates must be detail-oriented, conscientious, and be willing/able to work independently once trained.  Hours and days of the week worked are flexible and arranged by mutual agreement.  Candidates who can commit to at least an average of 10 hours per week will be preferred. Additional hours may be worked if desired.  The target start date is Oct 15, 2026, and the work will likely continue to May 2027, with the possibility to continue for future seasons.

Hiring will take place through a temporary staffing agency, therefore people hired will not be State of Maine employees.  The current pay is $18.00 per hour, and successful candidates will need to sign up through Tri-State Staffing, Inc. in Augusta (this process may be done remotely).

If interested, please contact Adam Pepi at the Maine Department of Environmental Protection’s Biological Monitoring Program:  Adam.A.Pepi@maine.gov , (207) 241-1521.