Field and Laboratory Technician
About The Position
The National Center for Water Quality Research (NCWQR) at Heidelberg University is seeking a motivated Laboratory and Field Technician. This role will primarily focus on the Heidelberg Tributary Loading Program (HTLP) and will involve sample collection and laboratory analysis for various projects. The technician will support the smooth operation of the HTLP and chemistry laboratory, including sample collection, field station maintenance, sample preparation, performing specific analyses according to Standard Operating Procedures, and data management. Responsibilities also include maintaining and troubleshooting analytical equipment, preparing standards and reagents, and overseeing student interns. Experience with water sample analysis for nutrient chemistry and maintaining laboratory instrumentation is ideal.
Requirements
- Completion of a Bachelor of Science in the Natural Sciences, Chemistry, or a related field.
- Knowledge of and excitement for stream, river, wetland, and lake ecosystems.
- Ability to work in adverse field conditions.
- Ability to lift equipment and samples weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Must have a valid driver's license.
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule.
Nice To Haves
- Experience using chemical analysis to quantify nutrient concentrations in water.
- Experience sampling aquatic ecosystems.
Responsibilities
- Maintain sample integrity from sample collection, sample receiving, login, chain of custody, and sample preparation for all samples processed in the chemical laboratory.
- Conduct specific analyses following all Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)/Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) requirements for completed analysis.
- Ensure that all laboratory instrumentation and equipment is functioning properly.
- Maintain laboratory database systems in collaboration with other staff members.
- Prepare for upcoming sampling on a weekly basis.
- Incorporate updates to laboratory procedures or equipment as needed.
- Help with special projects when the opportunity arises.
- Collaborate and train new technicians in the chemistry laboratory.
- Assist with weekly HTLP sample collection.
- Help maintain and repair HTLP field stations.
- Assist with field sampling associated with other NCWQR projects.
- Train and supervise student workers (Interns).
- Assist students with independent research projects as needed.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
