NRRI Sr. Laboratory Technician

A Lab technician needed to work under various aquatic environmental projects, maintaining strict quality protocols that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) standards. Duties include aquatic field work, sample processing in the laboratory, and computer work. The position conducts specialized laboratory preparations of aquatic specimens, mainly algae (water) and lake sediment samples. Field work includes testing and sample collection on-board Great Lakes ships without supervision or direct instruction. The position will include working with others on planning field excursions and instructing on the operation of laboratory equipment and procedures, ensuring safe operations. Work will be under the direction of Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) employees, though independence in completing tasks will be highly valued.  Review of applications will begin 10/12/2021.

Job duties:

• Perform field work on aquatic systems in support of projects (10%).
• Train new employees in field and laboratory procedures, ensuring adherence to safety standards (5%).
• Manage and prepare water, algae, and sediment samples in a laboratory setting (60%).
• Perform data entry and maintain accurate databases. Keep detailed records of all activities (15%).
• Coordinate and maintain laboratory equipment and supplies, including purchasing and repair (10%).

Required Qualifications:

  • High school graduation or the equivalent with specialization in sciences and related coursework or experience related to the job totaling at least four years in combination.
  • Organizational skills and an eye for detail (e.g., measuring sample weights, entering data in spreadsheets); demonstrated ability to organize work and information from multiple activities.
  • Prior participation working in diverse teams, being respectful of other team members and being able to navigate interpersonal relationship dynamics on teams; ability to communicate and work closely with team members of many disciplines in both a laboratory and outdoor setting.
  • Laboratory experience in an academic or similar setting.
  • Microsoft Office (especially Excel & Word).
  • Physical ability to work long hours in the laboratory or outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Educational and employment history demonstrating responsible performance in past positions.
  • Valid U.S. driver’s license and ability to pass University driving background check

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree with a focus on the sciences.
  • Experience in aquatic studies.
  • Writing skills to prepare reports and procedures that describe work methods.
  • Experience with graphics packages (CorelDraw, Photo Paint, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.)

To Apply

Please visit the UMN employment listing  and search for: 343401