The Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) is hiring a Research Technician in our Water Quality Lab to assist scientists on research activities primarily focused on lab analyses related to projects in the Great Lakes basin that address fisheries management and ecology, river and wetland bioassessment, water quality, and molecular tools in freshwater science. The technician will play a key role in daily operations and management of our Water Quality Lab, which includes state of the art equipment and focuses on inorganic and organic water analyses. The successful applicant also will be engaged in research project development and professional activities.

The Research Technician’s role will include, but not be limited to:

• Lead field and lab research projects as directed
• Provide daily oversight of student researchers at CFRE and those conducting lab research
• Process lab data, including eDNA analyses
• Conduct standard laboratory water analyses using discrete analyzers, LC-MS/MS, ion chromatographs, and spectrophotometers
• Oversee purchasing and installation of new analytical equipment
• Conduct data entry and QC
• Analyze data using statistical software and generate reports of results
• Maintain sample archives
• Maintain and repair equipment
• Oversee external sample workflow and invoicing
• Assist with purchasing of research supplies
• Write grants and/or acquire contracts to help sustain the position at CFRE
• Present at scientific conferences and attend professional development opportunities as available
• Assist CFRE staff and community partners with organizing and conducting outreach events (e.g., St. Marys River Day) as needed
• Assist with other lab or field tasks or processes as needed
• Assist with research report preparation and publications
• Assist with tracking and reporting on research activities and accomplishments annually
• Assist with other lab duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemistry, aquatic ecology or a related field
• At least 2 years of experience working on aquatic ecology projects
• Demonstrate the potential ability to perform essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description
• Demonstrated strong organizational skills
• Valid driver’s license

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 3+ years of experience working in related lab research such as analytical water chemistry or molecular ecology
• Demonstrated experience working with and supervising students
• Familiarity with standard analytical equipment and QA/QC protocols

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS

Adequate physical fitness to be able to sit and concentrate for long periods of time and carry equipment over 25 lbs; use of gross motor skills to perform supervisory and organizational duties; use of fine motor skills to operate equipment; social intelligence; problem solving ability; ability to understand and work with numbers; ability to see, hear, and speak with or without the use of aids to perform normal office and laboratory tasks.  The ability to work with highly hazardous chemicals in a safe manor.