Laboratory Technician

Job Title
Laboratory Technician
Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Department
Harte Research Institute
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Type
Staff
Job Description
PURPOSE
The Laboratory Technician is expected to contribute in many ways to research projects in the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Ecology Lab at the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies, including carrying out tasks and recording results for field and laboratory work related to oyster reefs and other coastal habitats.
RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct field research including boat and shore-based sample collection and water quality monitoring.
• Process various samples in the laboratory (e.g., sorting of benthic fauna samples, collection and analysis of oyster tissues for disease detection, filtration of water for chlorophyll/ total suspended solids quantification, homogenization of sediments for stable isotope analyses).
• Maintain field and laboratory equipment, including vessel upkeep and repair/ use logs.
• Maintain organized and accurate data records.
• Prepare summaries and reports for presentation and submission to granting agencies.
• Coordinate and participate in educational outreach events.
• Coordinate and provide logistical support for field activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

• Associate's degree in Marine Science, Biology, or related environmental science field.
• One (1) year of relevant experience.
• Field experience including operation of trucks and boats, transect sampling, and water quality monitoring.
• Field and/or laboratory experience with Eastern Oyster (Crassostrea virginica) and other benthic invertebrates.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, particularly data management in Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel as needed and work long/ nonstandard hours for the collection of samples and other data.

WHAT THEY WOULD LIKE TO SEE

• Bachelor's degree in Marine Science, Biology, or related environmental science field.
• Two to three (2-3) years of relevant experience.
• Infaunal invertebrate identification and classification using dichotomous keys.
• Experience with boat/ trailer and equipment maintenance.
• AAUS Scientific Diver certification or scientific diving experience.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Proficient in ArcGIS, R and/ or SAS.

SALARY

• $18.46 - $20.67 hourly (approx. $38,407 - $43,000 annually)

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer committed to diversity.