Biologist , Water Chemistry Technician

About the California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences is a globally renowned scientific and cultural institution located in the heart of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. Home to a world‑class planetarium, aquarium, research center, and natural history museum—all under one living roof—our mission is to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration.

Our extensive collections span plants, animals, fossils, and cultural artifacts from across the globe and throughout history. We are a diverse team of leading biodiversity scientists, educators, storytellers, designers, and communicators who work collaboratively to advance knowledge and inspire action through science and storytelling.

When you join the California Academy of Sciences, you become part of a mission‑driven community that values curiosity, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you're working behind the scenes in research or engaging the public on the museum floor, your work will help connect people to the natural world and empower them to protect it.

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.

This position is based in San Francisco, California. The specific onsite/hybrid schedule for this position is listed below.

• 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. Assists in maintaining pH and ORP probes.
• Assists in maintaining the department’s chemical inventory database and Safety Data Sheet binders.
• Mixes reagents and standards and ensures 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 position(s) in a laboratory, public aquarium or comparable institution.
• Experienced 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.
• Effective verbal and written…