Biology Laboratory Technician

Chugach Regional Resource Commission•Seward, AK

About The Position

The Biology Laboratory Technician serves in the Chugach Region Ocean Monitoring (CROM) program, CRRC’s marine ecological and biochemical monitoring program, at the Alutiiq Pride Marine Institute in Seward, Alaska. The technician assists with daily operations of the Biology Laboratory, which focuses on phytoplankton identification in seawater samples using microscopy and qPCR, as well as shellfish biotoxin analyses. The role includes sample processing and analysis, data management, and helping prepare figures and reports. Additional duties may include supporting ocean chemistry monitoring and other research.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a wide variety of people and personnel across the state, including Tribal, private, state, and federal resource agencies, in a fast-paced environment.
Basic laboratory safety knowledge, including chemical interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in recording data and observations.
Skill in using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Proficiency in using laboratory instruments and data analysis software.
Strong commitment to following standard operating procedures and safety guidelines.
Excellent organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Familiarity with Chugach Region Tribes and cultures.
Embrace, support, and promote CRRC’s core values of respect, integrity, trust, compassion, and quality through actions and interactions with staff and partners.

Nice To Haves

Proven experience working in a laboratory setting.
Experience with molecular biology.
Knowledge of the Chugach Region’s culture and language; preference is given to a Native from the Chugach Region or a person knowledgeable of the region’s culture and language.

Responsibilities

Receive, handle, and prepare water and shellfish samples for phytoplankton and biotoxin analysis.
Create sample IDs, log samples, and store them in appropriate locations.
Record observations, data, and results in laboratory notebooks and electronic databases.
Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, and cleaning of laboratory equipment.
Assist with maintaining laboratory inventory, including consumables, reagents, and equipment manuals.
Analyze experimental data using software tools and prepare clear, concise reports summarizing findings and observations.
Maintain rigorous laboratory quality control standards, including accurate measurements and precise results.
Assist in implementing new assays, experimental design, and development of operating procedures.
Follow safety protocols and guidelines when handling chemicals, hazardous materials, and laboratory equipment.
Collaborate with researchers and scientists on experiments and provide support during data analysis.
Stay up to date on relevant scientific literature.
Travel occasionally to receive training or visit rural communities as required.
Assist in coordinating workshops and educational outreach.
Perform other duties as assigned.