Biology Laboratory Technician

Location: This position is located at Chugach Regional Resources Commission’s (CRRC) Alutiiq Pride Marine Institute (APMI) in Seward, AK. 

Reports To: Biology Laboratory Manager

Status: Non-Exempt

This is a one-year grant funded position.

The Organization: CRRC is a nonprofit intertribal fish and wildlife commission established to address environmental and natural resources issues of concern to its seven member Tribes, located in the Chugach Region of southcentral Alaska. These include Tatitlek Village IRA Council, Native Village of Eyak (Cordova), Port Graham Village Council, Nanwalek IRA Council, Chenega IRA Council, Qutekcak Native Tribe (Seward), and Valdez Native Tribe.

Position Description:

This position serves in the Chugach Region Ocean Monitoring (CROM) program, CRRC’s marine ecological and biochemical monitoring program. The biology laboratory technician will assist with the daily operations of the Biology Laboratory, which focuses on phytoplankton identification in seawater samples using microscopy and qPCR, and shellfish biotoxins analyses. Primary responsibilities include sample processing and analysis, data management, and helping prepare figures and reports. Additional duties may include supporting ocean chemistry monitoring and other research as needed.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Sample Preparation: Receive, handle, and prepare water and shellfish samples for phytoplankton and biotoxin analysis.
• Sample Management: Create sample IDs, log, and store all samples in appropriate locations.
• Sample Analysis: Record observations, data, and results in laboratory notebooks and electronic databases.
• Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, and cleaning of laboratory equipment to maintain optimal performance.
• Laboratory Equipment Inventory: Assist in maintenance of laboratory inventory including consumables, reagents, and equipment manuals.
• Analysis and Reporting: Analyze experimental data using software tools and prepare clear and concise reports, summarizing findings, and observations.
• Quality Control: Maintain rigorous quality control standards in the laboratory, including accurate measurements and precise results.
• Assist in implementation of new assays and experimental design and the development of operating procedures.
• Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines while handling chemicals, hazardous materials, and laboratory equipment.
• Work collaboratively with researchers and scientists to assist in experiments and provide support during data analysis. Assist in the development of standard operating procedures.
• Stay up to date on relevant scientific literature.
• Occasional travel to receive training or to visit rural communities as required.
• Assist in coordinating workshops and educational outreach.
• Other duties as assigned.

Educational & Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field.
• Proven experience working in a lab setting is preferred.
• Experience with molecular biology is preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a wide variety of personalities and personnel across the state (Tribal, private, state, and federal resource agencies) at a broad range of levels in a fast-paced work environment.
• Basic laboratory safety knowledge including the use of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in recording data and observations.
• Skill in using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
• Proficiency in using laboratory instruments and data analysis software.
• Strong commitment to following standard operating procedures and safety guidelines.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Familiarity with Chugach Region Tribes and cultures.

Employee is expected to embrace, support, and promote the core values of respect, integrity, trust, compassion, and quality which align with CRRC’s Mission and Vision through their actions and interactions with all staff, and partners.

THE CHUGACH REGIONAL RESOURCES COMMISSION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. PREFERENCE IS EXTENDED TO QUALIFIED AMERICAN INDIAN INDIVIDUALS FOR APPOINTMENTS TO ALL POSITIONS ON THE STAFF OF THE CHUGACH REGIONAL RESOURCES COMMISSION (Public Law 93-638 Indian Self- Determination and Education Assistance Act, Indian Preference Act, and the Indian Civil Rights Act, 1968 apply). Preference will be given to a Native from the Chugach Region or person who is knowledgeable of the region’s culture and language.