Lab Technician

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact Ocean Associates at 703-388-9548 to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking an applicant to provide chemistry lab technician services to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC), Milford Laboratory in Milford, CT. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services, and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. 

Background

NOAA Fisheries manages and conserves the nation's ocean resources and habitats to ensure their renewability for the future. The Milford Laboratory, a world leader in aquaculture science, was established at the request of Connecticut’s oyster industry to help expand sustainable oyster harvests. Over the lab's illustrious history, NOAA scientists, working closely with industry and academia, have made fundamental contributions to the understanding of shellfish biology and reproduction. Today, the Milford Lab continues to conduct state-of-the-art science that informs management for the sustainable expansion of aquaculture, provides services to the shellfish aquaculture industry, and advances new technologies through collaborative research. The aquaculture research program evaluates current and proposed marine aquaculture practices for technical effectiveness, environmental compatibility, and sustained commercial success. With a focus on domestic seafood production, the Milford Lab continues to be a world leader in aquaculture science.

Description

This position will provide support for the study of chemistry in aquaculture. You will be required to participate in laboratory and field research and handle scientific and chemical instruments as needed. 

Tasks 

• Perform laboratory sampling of sediment, tissue, and seawater for analysis of chemicals including but not limited to carbon, nitrogen, phosphate, silica, pH, alkalinity, dissolved inorganic carbon, total suspended material, etc.
• Analyze samples using standard curves and certified reference materials in a laboratory including using spectrometer, elemental analyzer, flow cytometer, microscope, dissolved inorganic carbon analyzer, titrator, and other equipment.
• Maintain and do monthly checks on existing chemical laboratory equipment.
• Maintain weekly log and checks on chemical inventory in accordance with NEFSC safety protocol.
• Clean, wash, and maintain glassware needed for analysis.
• Perform routine standard operating protocols for making standard solutions, reagents, and other chemical solutions as needed for sample analysis.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, handle and dispose of chemicals appropriately, and maintain proper labeling of hazardous materials.
• Work with hazardous chemicals in a safe manner according to laboratory safety procedures.
• Write SOPs and work from any existing SOPs for sample analysis and collection.
• Search for project-relevant published data within the scientific literature and compile for further analysis and visualization using software such as Microsoft Excel and/or Google Sheets.
• Record data for all relevant literature search and all laboratory analysis.
• Lift up to 50 lbs. and be able to change gas cylinders following SOPs. 

Start Date: As soon as possible. 

Location: NEFSC Milford Laboratory in Milford, CT.

Salary and Benefits: This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary, commensurate with experience, between $23.00 - $26.00 per hour.

Requirements

Applicants must have the following minimum requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical oceanography, environmental science, or marine chemistry. 
• Knowledge of biological principles and experimental design. 
• Ability to innovate, train, and meet quality and performance standards.
• Proficient in using MS Word, MS Excel, MS Power Point, and R.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience following proper safety protocols when working with chemicals. 
• Scientific writing background to contribute to published written reports and/or peer reviewed publications.
• Basic computer skills (MS Office, etc.).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting.
• Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action.

If you are interested in being considered for this position, please APPLY THROUGH OUR ADP WEB PORTAL, AT THE LINK AT THE TOP RIGHT OF THIS PAGE.

Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application.

Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following:

• Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed.
• Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education.
• Education.
• Previous experience or training with similar requirements.
• Three professional references. 
• Include your name in the document file name.
• Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred). 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire, and successfully complete a federal government background check. OAI does not discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal or state law. 

OAI is a government contractor and is required by law to invite applicants to self-identify their veteran status. OAI is required to use the information it collects as part of its future affirmative action efforts in hiring. The information is collected anonymously by computer and is not connected to your application. You will see a place to check a box in OAI's online application. Even though the information is anonymous, self-identification is voluntary. You can always check the box that says you decline to self-identify. 

Note: If you are not selected, your materials may be retained for present or future opportunities. We may use your resume in bidding on a project and if we are awarded the work, we will contact you before seeking further applicants. If you do not wish us to retain or use your resume to seek work for you, please let us know in the "Notes" section on the second page of the online application.