Student Research Technician

~ At the Fund, we make conservation work for America. ~

By creating solutions that make environmental and economic sense, we are redefining conservation to demonstrate its essential role in our future prosperity. Top-ranked for efficiency and effectiveness, we have worked in all 50 states to protect 7.8 million acres of land since 1985.

Position Overview

The research technician duties include performing water quality experiments at multiple scales (bench-top, pilot-scale, field-scale) to develop and evaluate technologies for improving water quality. The technician should be able to independently execute office-oriented research and engineering analytical activities including literature review, data analysis, and parts sourcing.

Assisting in delivering the highest quality research and technology transfer outcomes that meet or exceed the expectations of our partners the technician will also work collaboratively with others (internal to The Conservation Fund and externally) to reduce the environmental footprint and improve the sustainability of agriculture/aquaculture. 

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate water quality research experiments; collect data; maintain accurate and timely data records in Microsoft Excel; apply standard quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of results; operate, calibrate and perform routine maintenance on specialized instruments, devices, and equipment used for lab and field analysis; and organize and centralize files and records.
• Work independently with limited supervision managing the day-to-day activities of experiments and the associated troubleshooting required for long-term experiments
• Assist in development of programmatic outputs including peer-reviewed and grey-literature publications and presentations under the direction of the scientist in charge.
• Interact with staff, research interns, external partners and vendors in a professional manner while maintaining the orderliness and cleanliness of the research facilities.
• Exhibit individual initiative; work independently; be technically accurate and organized; be dedicated to maintaining high laboratory standards with regard to QA/QC protocols and workplace and laboratory safety policies; and possess attention to detail.

Qualifications

Desired Background and Personal Attributes:

• Prospective interns should be pursuing a bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies, Biology, or a related discipline.
• Prior experience in a laboratory setting is helpful, such as found in college level science courses.
• This individual must be dedicated to maintaining high laboratory standards with regard to quality and safety and must possess good organization, record keeping, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word applications is helpful.
• This position requires the ability to independently follow SOPs.
• The employee must be detail oriented and flexible with regard to changing schedules and duties.

Physical/Mental Requirements:

• The job may require work with potentially hazardous and noxious materials in indoor, outdoor, or greenhouse settings.
• A successful candidate must take proper safety precautions, anticipate unsafe circumstances, and act accordingly to prevent accidents.
• Said candidate will also be able to stand for long periods of time performing laboratory bench work, and be able to climb ladders.
• The physical and mental requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Education:

• Some College.

Required Experience:

• 0 to 2 years.

To Apply

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" and follow the application instructions provided on our website.