ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II - 37020076

State of Florida • Tallahassee, FL

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Environmental Specialist II, position number 37020076, is in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration’s Biology Program in Tallahassee. This position provides analytical support in the Bench Biology laboratory and independently performs preparation and analysis of environmental samples for microbiological and chlorophyll analyses in support of environmental monitoring and protection efforts for the State of Florida.

Assists analysts with laboratory operations under guidance of the Environmental Supervisor and senior staff, including training in chlorophyll and microbiological preparation and analysis techniques, quality control procedures, and laboratory maintenance. Achieves and maintains Demonstration of Capability (DOC) requirements for bench biology tests. Reviews and maintains laboratory records including logbooks, bench sheets, quality control charts, maintenance records, and data files. Assists in review and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance requirements.

Prepares reagents, standards, and media for sample analysis, including quality control of prepared materials and laboratory supplies. Orders and maintains laboratory supplies and inventory for operational efficiency and maintains communication with suppliers as needed.

Uploads, verifies, and authorizes laboratory data for bench biology tests. Performs instrument cleaning, maintenance, and calibration and supports preventative maintenance tracking, troubleshooting of equipment performance issues, and repair scheduling. Cleans and organizes laboratory workspaces, glassware, and sample containers.

Records and distributes meeting notes, training notes, and support documents as needed. Duties may fluctuate depending on laboratory workload.

Performs other work as required.

Requirements

• Knowledge of general biology and microbiology.
• Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and analytical techniques of the physical and natural sciences.
• Skill in the use of computers including Microsoft Office software, internet resources, or other computer programs.
• Skill in the use of scientific laboratory equipment.
• Ability to participate in sampling for special studies.
• Ability to use Quality Control measures to evaluate accuracy, precision and efficiency of biological methods and ensure high quality data.
• Ability to collect, record, and analyze scientific data relating to biological sciences.
• Ability to use laboratory personal protective equipment and work with acids, acetone, and other chemicals.
• Ability to determine workload priorities and ensure proper completion of work assignments.
• Ability to think and work independently and to work well in a group.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work at counter height for long stretches of time with periods of frequent movement about the laboratory.
• Valid Driver’s License
• At least five years of verifiable related experience in one or more of the following fields: engineering, engineering sciences, chemistry, environmental sciences, natural sciences, biological sciences, physical sciences, environmental policy, computer science, or public health.
• A post-secondary degree in any of these fields from an accredited college or university may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
• Applicants with foreign degrees must submit a credential evaluation report from an approved agency.

Nice To Haves

• Occasional Travel

Responsibilities

• Provides analytical support in the Bench Biology laboratory.
• Independently performs preparation and analysis of environmental samples for microbiological and chlorophyll analyses.
• Assists analysts with laboratory operations.
• Achieves and maintains Demonstration of Capability (DOC) requirements for bench biology tests.
• Reviews and maintains laboratory records including logbooks, bench sheets, quality control charts, maintenance records, and data files.
• Assists in review and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance requirements.
• Prepares reagents, standards, and media for sample analysis.
• Orders and maintains laboratory supplies and inventory.
• Maintains communication with suppliers as needed.
• Uploads, verifies, and authorizes laboratory data for bench biology tests.
• Performs instrument cleaning, maintenance, and calibration.
• Supports preventative maintenance tracking, troubleshooting of equipment performance issues, and repair scheduling.
• Cleans and organizes laboratory workspaces, glassware, and sample containers.
• Records and distributes meeting notes, training notes, and support documents as needed.
• Performs other work as required.

Benefits

• Annual and Sick Leave benefits
• Nine paid holidays and one Personal Holiday each year
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance options
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions
• Tuition waivers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree