Address
Form of workSalary: $3,883.00 - $5,214.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2024-03363
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 03/13/2024
Closing Date: 3/27/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
FULL-TIME/PERMANENT
GENETICS LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
SCIENTIFIC TECHNICIAN 3
Fish Program - Genetics Section
Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
Our agency is dedicated to achieving healthy ecosystems and vibrant habitats, and we're seeking an enthusiastic individual to join our dynamic team.
In this role, you'll be at the forefront of our efforts to advance sustainable management practices for fish and wildlife resources. Working alongside skilled Biologists and Scientific Technicians, you'll dive into exciting projects aimed at integrating science into our conservation strategies.
Conduct genetic research and analysis, assist in the development and implementation of innovative techniques for wildlife and habitat management, and contribute to the dissemination of valuable scientific findings to inform conservation policies and practices.
Lab Technician preparing DNA libraries for genotyping - Photo credit: WDFW
Duties
Our Genetics Laboratory Technician,
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Schedule: Travel Requirements: Tools and Equipment: Customer Interactions:
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
OR
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:
Knowledge of:
Competencies in:
Supplemental Information
Please note: Failure to follow the instructions below may lead to disqualification.
Experience and education selected, listed, and detailed in the Supplemental Questions must be verifiable in the application.
In order to successfully apply for this position, you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov and attach the following to your profile before completing the online application:
IMPORTANT NOTE:
All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
JOIN THE WDFW TEAM:
Learn about our agencyand the perksof working for WDFW!
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has some of the most talented people in the natural resource field. We celebrate and value diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community, and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfilling the agency's mission. We value demonstrated skill in living WDFW values of Accountability, Service, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, and Empathy (ASPIRE).
WDFW employees may be eligible for the following:
Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), Vacation, Sick, and other Leave*, 11 Paid Holidays per year*, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentives (Download PDF reader), Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth.
UNION - WAFWP:
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
VETERAN PREFERENCE NOTICE:
To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:
MILITARY SPOUSE PREFERENCE NOTICE:
To take advantage of military spouse preference, please do the following:
Note: Please blackout any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
As part of WDFW's efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.
Follow us on social media: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
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More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible...
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2024-03363
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 03/13/2024
Closing Date: 3/27/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
FULL-TIME/PERMANENT
GENETICS LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
SCIENTIFIC TECHNICIAN 3
Fish Program - Genetics Section
Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
Our agency is dedicated to achieving healthy ecosystems and vibrant habitats, and we're seeking an enthusiastic individual to join our dynamic team.
In this role, you'll be at the forefront of our efforts to advance sustainable management practices for fish and wildlife resources. Working alongside skilled Biologists and Scientific Technicians, you'll dive into exciting projects aimed at integrating science into our conservation strategies.
Conduct genetic research and analysis, assist in the development and implementation of innovative techniques for wildlife and habitat management, and contribute to the dissemination of valuable scientific findings to inform conservation policies and practices.
Lab Technician preparing DNA libraries for genotyping - Photo credit: WDFW
Duties
Our Genetics Laboratory Technician,
- Independently conducts complex molecular laboratory investigations and experiments as part of the agency's genetic monitoring and research of fish and wildlife trust resources.
- Cuts/prepares tissue for DNA extractions, extracts DNA from multiple tissue types (including environmental DNA filters and soil samples)
- Conducts polymerase chain reactions (PCR), DNA sequencing, GT-Seq (Genotyping in the Thousands), quantitative PCR (qPCR), and restriction site associated DNA (RAD) procedures.
- Operates and maintains specialized laboratory equipment, including capillary electrophoresis, integrated fluidic circuit, and next-generation sequencing instruments, as well as liquid handling robots, used to process DNA specimens.
- Uses computer programs to (a) process and interpret raw data, (b) evaluate PCR reactions to optimize procedures, and (c) genotype samples using specialized software.
- Consults with research project leaders to implement and optimize laboratory procedures.
- Conducts quality control procedures on PCR products and DNA to ensure data quality for analysis (e.g., DNA quantification).
- Maintains sample collections using specialized databases, creates Excel spreadsheets and Access files to track laboratory processes, and maintains sampling supply inventories.
- Prepares standard solutions, buffers, and reagents.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Work Setting, including hazards:
- May involve work in inclement/hazardous conditions including handling toxic/reactive chemicals and sharps.
- Primarily laboratory work with use of personal protective equipment.
- Required to lift supplies and field equipment up to 50 lbs.
- Strong hand eye coordination when working with small liquid volumes.
- The work schedule is 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday.
- Daily hourly work schedule is amenable to change with supervisor approval.
- Work more than 40 hrs. per week may occasionally (rarely) be required to complete lab deadlines, including night and weekend shifts.
- May travel regionally and occasionally statewide.
- Various types of lab equipment (capillary electrophoresis, integrated fluidic circuit, next-generation sequencing instruments, liquid handling robots), computerized lab instrumentation (pipettes, centrifuges, thermal cyclers), tools, and personal computers.
- Maintains a professional working relationship with contract entities.
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science AND four (4) years of experience as a Scientific Technician
OR
- Graduation from high school or GED including one year of high school science AND four (4) years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.
- Note: College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience, provided the course work includes at least six semester or nine quarter hours of natural science classes.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:
- Experience providing technical expertise and training in a Genetics Lab and maintaining cooperative working relationships with others.
Knowledge of:
- Laboratory principles, practices, and techniques such as those used in molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, chemistry, and organic chemistry.
- Laboratory equipment maintenance, operation and calibration, laboratory supplies and reagents
- Data preparation and quality control
- Knowledge of computer interfaces for operation and setup of laboratory equipment.
Competencies in:
- Laboratory data collection and summarization
- Evaluation and interpretation of test results
- Operation of complex, computer-controlled instruments
Supplemental Information
Please note: Failure to follow the instructions below may lead to disqualification.
Experience and education selected, listed, and detailed in the Supplemental Questions must be verifiable in the application.
In order to successfully apply for this position, you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov and attach the following to your profile before completing the online application:
- A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications of this position (Generic cover letter will not be accepted).
- A current resume.
- Three professional references.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
JOIN THE WDFW TEAM:
Learn about our agencyand the perksof working for WDFW!
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has some of the most talented people in the natural resource field. We celebrate and value diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community, and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfilling the agency's mission. We value demonstrated skill in living WDFW values of Accountability, Service, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, and Empathy (ASPIRE).
WDFW employees may be eligible for the following:
Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), Vacation, Sick, and other Leave*, 11 Paid Holidays per year*, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentives (Download PDF reader), Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth.
UNION - WAFWP:
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
VETERAN PREFERENCE NOTICE:
To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:
- Email a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter to diana.humes@dfw.wa.gov.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and Vet (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 - Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
MILITARY SPOUSE PREFERENCE NOTICE:
To take advantage of military spouse preference, please do the following:
- Notify us of your military spouse status by email at diana.humes@dfw.wa.gov.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and MS (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 - MS)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Note: Please blackout any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
As part of WDFW's efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.
Follow us on social media: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
dh
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible...
