Reef Restoration Biologist - Guam Coral Reef Initiative
Closing Date: September 30, 2025
Anticipated Start Date: January 2026
Employment Type: Full-Time Limited-Term Appointment Position (3 Years)
Agency: Guam Department of Agriculture, Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources
Location: Guam
Pay: $49,730/year
TO APPLY: Please submit unofficial academic transcripts, resume/CV, and a cover letter through the GCRI Job Application Form. Your resume or CV must detail your experience and training in SCUBA diving and include contact information for three professional references. Questions about the position may be directed to GCRI Program Manager Ashton Williams (ashton.williams@doag.guam.gov); please include the position title in the email subject line.
About GCRI
The Guam Coral Reef Initiative (GCRI) is a program of the Guam Department of Agriculture’s Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources. GCRI’s goal is to provide a comprehensive program for the conservation and management of Guam’s coral reef ecosystems. GCRI’s work includes environmental restoration projects, management planning, ecological monitoring, disaster response, and education and outreach.
Job Description
The Guam Coral Reef Initiative (GCRI) is seeking applicants for two new Reef Restoration Biologist positions to support coral reef restoration activities. The Reef Restoration Biologists 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 on or around January 05, 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). Provided benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, retirement, paid leave (annual, sick, and holidays), and training opportunities. Relocation expenses are not provided.
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
