As-Needed Lab Biologist

Overview Location(s): Tracy, CA / Sacramento-San Joaquin DeltaPractice/Department: BiologyWork Environment: LabratoryCompensation: $31.00/hourly* Dudek’s journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California’s water and wastewater agencies.   Today, we are a 100% employee-owned firm supporting clients nationwide and delivering projects that improve and protect the built and natural environments of communities throughout the United States. Our work has been recognized by leading industry organizations, and we’ve been honored with multiple national Top Workplace Awards.   Our employees are unified by a singular commitment to supporting projects that address key societal issues, such as the transition to renewable energy, infrastructure hardening and repair, environmental protection, and community resilience.   Learn more about our  award-winning culture , the  benefits and perks  of being a Dudekian, and the  projects  you will have the opportunity to shape.   Position Overview Who You Are   As an employee you embrace accountability, working safely, and collaboration while thinking resourcefully and independently.   Like all Dudekians, you are curious and  solution-oriented , with the ability to adapt quickly to changes and approach challenges with a spirit of  innovation .   How You’ll Make an Impact Dudek is currently seeking a  part-time as needed (variable hours per week)  laboratory technician to join our biological resources team in at the lab near Tracy, CA. The successful candidate will help Dudek staff collect and analyze laboratory and environmental data related to aquatic invasive species management and prepare associated analyses and reports.  Duties and Responsibilities Collects and interprets analytical and environmental chemistry, biology, toxicology, hydrology, meteorology, and other related data and observes and clearly notates field conditions, meeting notes, etc. related to aquatic invasive species management; Requires existing familiarity with standard and specialized aquatic toxicology laboratory equipment including but not limited to water quality testing equipment (Ph, EC, turbidity, etc.), hot water baths, compound microscope, laboratory glassware, flow-through aquaculture systems, and submersible pumps; Reviews safety data sheets for all chemicals used in laboratory and strictly adheres to guidelines related to safe handling and required personal protective equipment (PPE); Adheres to California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) collecting and biosecurity standards in accordance with an existing Scientific Collecting Permit (SCP); Collects water and biological samples for subcontracted laboratory analysis; Interacts with laboratories to obtain desired and quality-assured results; Uses field equipment and thoroughly documents field conditions and project status, including phone calls and emails to project manager, subcontractors and other colleagues; Reviews, summarizes and critiques scientific literature; Contacts peers, colleagues, and others to gain clarification and gather information as needed; Contacts outside entities as directed by project manager to gain or present information on project status; Adheres to assigned levels of effort for tasks given; Requires existing familiarity with, and/or willingness and ability to learn, standard concepts, practices, and procedures related to environmental consulting; Relies on technical experience and common sense and judgment to plan and accomplish goals; Performs a variety of tasks working under little or no supervision using a certain degree of creativity and latitude as required; Conducts all work with safety in mind, including operating mechanical equipment, operating vehicles, etc.; Conducts all work with a strict attention to detail. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, botany, environmental science or related natural resources field from an accredited college or university; Specialized training in biology, environmental science, and/or toxicology in a laboratory setting; Ability to use knowledge of the Microsoft environment – Outlook, Word, Excel and Access; Ability to conduct all work with safety in mind, including operating mechanical equipment, laboratory equipment, operating vehicles, etc.; Strong written and oral communication skills; Must possess a valid driver’s license and have active personal automobile liability insurance by first day of employment. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with aquatic invasive species (AIS) ecology; Experience with handling live aquatic animals in a laboratory setting; Ability to read, understand and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.   Ability to write detailed technical reports and correspondence; Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference.  Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios and proportions to practical situations;  Ability to apply common sensed understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral or diagram form.  Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.   Ability to assess multiple activities and prioritize or to promptly seek assistance from the supervisor to assist in setting priorities; Ability to speak clearly and effectively one-on-one or in a group; Strong customer service emphasis and solution-oriented approach to work; Conscientious and detail-oriented with demonstrated accuracy and attention to detail; Exercises good judgment and sound decision-making skills. Compensation: $31.00/hourly*  *Final agreed-upon compensation will be based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, an individual’s related experience, education, certifications, skills, and work location. Successful candidates must pass a pre-e