Minnesota Department of Natural Resources · 23 hours ago
Fish Contaminants Specialist - Laboratory Scientist 1
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking a full-time Laboratory Scientist 1 to provide services in water quality and fish health analysis. The role involves supporting the Fish Health Laboratory and interagency monitoring workgroups through technical and logistical assistance.
Environmental ConsultingGovernmentNatural ResourcesNon Profit
Responsibilities
Provide logistical, technical and data services for the Minnesota Fish Contaminant Monitoring Project
Provide technical services in the Fish Health Lab, assisting in all aspects of routine diagnostic procedures and water quality monitoring at state fish hatcheries and natural waterbodies
Support the development and growth of the interagency Fish Contaminants Monitoring Program to enhance the health of Minnesota’s fisheries
Assist in development of fish and aquatic contaminant standard operating procedures, research and data management
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in fisheries and wildlife, biology, chemistry, environmental biology or comparable fields
1 year of experience, including internships, in scientific laboratories performing microbiological, chemical, or environmental analysis, analyzing samples or conducting testing in accordance with established methodologies and standard operating procedures
Experience working under field conditions collecting environmental samples such as biological samples of aquatic organisms or water samples
Experience with laboratory equipment maintenance, supply ordering, and inventory management
Experience using data management software (such as Microsoft Office, ArcGIS, and laboratory information management systems) and database management
Knowledge of principles and practices of chemistry, limnology, microbiology, environmental monitoring and general laboratory practices and methods and laboratory safety
Ability to think critically and solve analytical problems
Ability to work independently and carry out analytical work, assemble materials, and present data with scientific accuracy and thoroughness
Ability to conduct field work under adverse weather conditions and learn to navigate in remote areas using a compass, maps and GPS
Ability to manage data, samples, and logistics of long-term projects such as state/basin wide fish, water or environmental monitoring
This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record
Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status)
It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment
Preferred
2 years of professional experience in scientific laboratories performing microbiological, chemical, or environmental analysis, analyzing samples or conducting testing in accordance with established methodologies and standard operating procedures
A master's degree in in fisheries and wildlife, biology, chemistry, environmental biology or comparable field
Professional experience and/or coursework in analytical chemistry techniques, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry
Professional experience or coursework in fish or water quality contaminants analysis or environmental toxicology
Strong familiarity with natural resource management principles as they pertain to fisheries management, aquaculture and fish health management
Benefits
Paid vacation and sick leave
12 paid holidays each year
Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
Fertility care, including IVF
Diabetes care
Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Training, classes, and professional development
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support
A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Company
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is a government agency that offers natural resource management and environmental protection.