Ocean Career: MBA Water Quality Specialist

Aquarium Water Quality Lab Technician

Core

Activities:

• Perform laboratory and tank-side analyses of Aquarium system water, including microbiology and physical chemistry parameters; techniques utilized include IDEXX, spectrophotometry, titration, and use of handheld meters.
• Perform data entry and maintenance of water quality databases.
• Mix reagents and standards and be accountable for proper quality controls.
• Assist in maintenance of analytical and laboratory equipment, including calibrations, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs.
• Maintain department chemical inventory, including chemical inventory database and Safety Data Sheet files.
• Provide support for other lab efforts as needed, including sample collection, storm water monitoring, instrument calibration, research projects, emergency testing, system maintenance, and microbiological analyses.
• Interpret water quality data and works with aquarist using the data to maintain proper water quality parameters in all aquarium systems and support projects to further animal care knowledge and/or exhibit design.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, environmental science, hydrology, engineering, or a related field or equivalent combination of education, training and experience
• Minimum of 1 year of practical experience in a laboratory, with a working knowledge of techniques and instrumentation used in analytical water chemistry (this year can be concurrent with school)
• Excellent attention to detail, organization, problem solving abilities, and planning skills
• Understanding of the chemical and nutrient components and processes of seawater, including pH, alkalinity, and the nitrogen cycle
• Practical skills in lab equipment handling (pipettes, instruments, glassware)
• Working knowledge of lab and chemical safety
• Demonstrated ability to train and teach other staff
• Experience in an aquarium water quality lab or with aquarium water quality testing
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to work within, and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium's Core Values

Physical Requirements to Perform

Essential Job Functions:

• Equipment and tools used for daily operations are laboratory tools (pipettes, spectrophotometer, etc), fine tools for instrumentation work, fume hoods, handheld meters, lifts, computer
• Sitting, standing at lab benches, walking several miles, climbing stairs, climbing ladders, reaching, pulling, pushing, collecting water samples
• Occasional unassisted lifting up to 30lbs
• Work is performed in animal care spaces, service areas, life support spaces, basement, main aquarium, ARCC, laboratory, outside

Hourly Compensation Range: $22.74-$25.96 USD per hour. Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skill/knowledge set.

This opening is for a 4-month term assignment, part-time with a schedule of Monday-Wednesday, 8 hours per day and 24 hours per week.