Research Technician - Applied Aquatic Ecology Center

Job Posting Information

Posting Number: PG194871SP

Internal Recruitment: No

Working Title: Research Technician - Applied Aquatic Ecology Center

Anticipated Hiring Range: Commensurate with Experience ($53,000 - $54,000)

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9am - 6pm (some evenings and weekends may be required)

Job Location: Raleigh, NC

Department: Applied Aquatic Ecology Center

About the Department: The overall goals of the Center for Applied Aquatic Ecology (CAAE) are to provide water quality information to optimize management of water resources and to provide opportunities for students and teachers through education/outreach programs. Our work requires various facilities and equipment, such as a state-certified water quality analytical laboratory and real-time remote monitoring field instrumentation. High-quality data from the CAAE contributes to the State environmental agency's water quality database and to NC State University students’ research projects.

CAAE water quality monitoring/research programs help safeguard potable source-water reservoirs depended upon by approximately 750,000 North Carolinians. CAAE programs also track water quality in selected estuaries and marine coastal areas.

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well‑being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:

• Medical
  , Dental
  , and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits,
Wellness & Recreation Membership
, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer:
Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Join our team at the CAAE's state-certified laboratory, where your work will directly support water quality research and meaningful community education initiatives. We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Research Technician to perform water quality analyses using sophisticated instrumentation and established analytical techniques. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to environmental research while also engaging with students, educators, and community groups through our outreach programs.

What You'll Do

• Conduct comprehensive water quality analyses, including nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, nitrate, ammonia/ammonium, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, soluble reactive phosphorus), suspended solids, chlorophyll a, and fecal bacteria in accordance with the CAAE Standard Operating Procedures.
• Operate and maintain advanced laboratory instrumentation, including auto-analyzers and specialized research equipment.
• Prepare reagents, calculate chemical quantities, and ensure precise application for analytical procedures.
• Monitor data quality, identify discrepancies, and organize and prepare datasets for analysis and reporting.
• Provide preliminary summaries of laboratory procedures, tests, and research findings.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Maintain an organized, safe, and compliant laboratory environment in alignment with QA/QC, sanitation, and safety protocols.
• Manage laboratory inventory, track supply usage, and coordinate ordering of materials for analytical and bacterial testing.
• Collaborate with special projects, including nutrient analysis and coordinated research efforts with ancillary units.
• Independently prepare and maintain bench layouts to support efficient laboratory workflow.

Education & Outreach Engagement

Beyond the lab, you'll have the opportunity to make science accessible and inspiring by:

• Assisting with the CAAE's education and outreach initiatives.
• Hosting visiting groups for laboratory tours and hands-on activities.
• Supporting laboratory and field-based educational experiences.
• Coordinating and utilizing interactive tools such as the Augmented Reality Sandbox.
• Traveling occasionally to off-campus locations for scientific and educational activities.

• Strong technical skills in laboratory analysis and instrumentation.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality assurance and safety standards.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Enthusiasm for engaging with students and community audiences in an educational setting.

Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Minimum Experience/Education

Demonstrated possession of the…