Biologist , Water Chemistry Technician

About the Opportunity

Reporting to a departmental lead, the Biologist 1 provides support for the Water Quality laboratory through physical and chemical analyses of freshwater and saltwater samples for water quality monitoring for the health and wellbeing of the Steinhart Aquarium’s living collection. The position is primarily responsible for daily water sample collection, chemistry testing, quality control, data entry, troubleshooting, and laboratory maintenance. The Water Quality Laboratory oversees the following aquarium operating systems: water quality monitoring for all habitats, salt water management, chemical inventory, and instrument maintenance.

Location

San Francisco, California. This position is based in San Francisco, California. The specific onsite/hybrid schedule for this position is 16 hours per week onsite (Part‑Time/Temporary).

Key Responsibilities

• Performs water quality testing and analysis of all habitats in the aquarium, including physical chemistry parameters (salinity, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen), nutrients (nitrogen, iron, and phosphates) and biological analysis.
• Assists with data entry and maintenance of the water quality database.
• Assists in maintenance of the analytical and laboratory equipment such as calibration, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs, including pH and ORP probes.
• Assists in maintaining the department’s chemical inventory database and Safety Data Sheet binders.
• Mixes reagents and standards and is accountable for proper quality controls.
• Handles hazardous materials properly and distributes commonly used chemicals to the aquarium staff.
• Effectively communicates with the aquarium management and staff regarding water quality parameters.
• Maintains the lab in a clean and orderly manner in compliance with Association of Zoo and Aquarium (AZA) standards and OSHA.
• Follows all established protocols to prevent cross‑contamination.
• Actively participates in a culture promoting trust, respect, and accountability.
• Follows all academy and aquarium safety regulations.
• Performs other job‑related duties as assigned.

Experience and Education

• Previous paid work experience in analytical chemistry, water quality, or related laboratory positions in a public aquarium or comparable institution.
• Experience as an Analytical Laboratory Technician preferred.
• Water Quality Certification Level 1 from Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) preferred.
• Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, Biology, Zoology, Marine or Aquatic Biology, or a related field of study preferred.

Required

Skills and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of spectrophotometry, high‑performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), colorimetry, titration, pH meter, oxygen meter, and other standardized water testing equipment.
• Basic knowledge of standard aquarium life support systems, water quality testing methods, and parameters for maintaining aquatic habitats.
• Basic understanding of the chemical and nutrient components and processes of seawater, including pH, alkalinity, and the nitrogen cycle.
• Practical skills in handling lab equipment, pipettes, instruments, and glassware.
• Excellent observation skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective organizational and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to utilize web‑based communication and collaboration applications.
• Ability to multitask, adapt, and prioritize.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as departmental protocols, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to present programs and effectively convey information to guests, the general public, media, colleagues, and in professional meetings.
• Ability to work as a member of a team and engage in a culture that promotes trust, respect, and accountability while also working independently.
• Willingness to seek further training in laboratory techniques.
• Ability to complete CPR/AED/First Aid certification.
• Ability to work weekends and holidays on a routine basis.

Physical Environment

• Ability to transport 50 lb.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions 75 % of the time.
• Must be able to differentiate between colors.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.
• Requ…