Biologist I, Water Quality Technician

About the role

Reporting to a departmental lead the Biologist 1 provides support for the Water Quality laboratory through physical and chemical analyses of freshwater and saltwater samples for water quality monitoring for the health and wellbeing of the Steinhart Aquarium's living collection. The position is primarily responsible for daily water sample collection, chemistry testing, quality control, data entry, troubleshooting, and laboratory maintenance. The Water Quality Laboratory oversees the following Aquarium operating systems: water quality monitoring for all habitats, salt water management, chemical inventory, and instrument maintenance. Organizational Culture Join a team dedicated to the Academy's mission, vision and values! Currently, the Academy has a new strategic plan including three initiatives - Hope for Reefs , Thriving California , and Islands 2030 - that leverage biodiversity science, environmental learning, and collaborative engagement to regenerate fragile ecosystems around the world. Learn more at https://www.calacademy.org/about-us/major-initiatives . We hope you are inspired by what we do and are excited to contribute to our mission. The mission of the California Academy of Sciences is to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. The Academy is looking for candidates who do great work, and we know they may come from a number of different backgrounds and experiences. We encourage you to apply even if you do not believe you meet every qualification for the position. This position is based in San Francisco, California. The specific onsite/hybrid schedule for this position is listed below. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by Cal Academy Workers United, and will be subject to the terms and conditions of that contract. About the Water Quality Team within the Steinhart Aquarium The Water Quality Team is integral to the living aquatic collections of the Academy's work. The team is responsible for the daily water testing and monitoring for the aquarium department, which is essential for the aquatic living collection's health. The Water Quality Team is one of the teams within the Steinhart Aquarium. The Aquarium is a collaborative, supportive and innovative department that promotes a culture of trust, accountability and respect.

Responsibilities

• Performs water quality testing and analysis of all habitats in the aquarium, including physical chemistry parameters (ex. salinity, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen), nutrients (ex. nitrogen, iron, and phosphates) and biological analysis
• Assists with data entry and maintenance of the water quality database.
• Assists in maintenance of the analytical and laboratory equipment such as calibration, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs. Assists in maintaining pH and ORP probes.
• Assists in maintaining the departments chemical inventory database and Safety Data Sheet binders.
• Mix reagents and standards and be accountable for proper quality controls.
• Handles hazardous materials properly and distributes commonly used chemicals to the Aquarium staff.
• Effectively communicates with the Aquarium management and staff regarding water quality parameters.
• Maintains the lab in a clean and orderly manner in compliance with Association of Zoo and Aquarium (AZA) standards and OSHA.
• Follows all established protocols to prevent cross contamination.
• Actively participates in a culture promoting trust, respect, and accountability.
• Follows all Academy and Aquarium safety regulations.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
• Qualifications: A successful candidate will have the following:
• Experience and Education:
• Previous paid work experience in analytical chemistry, water quality, or related position(s) in a laboratory, public aquarium or comparable institution.
• Experienced Analytical Laboratory Technician preferred.
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Benefits

Additional Information

About the California Academy of Sciences The California Academy of Sciences is a globally renowned scientific and cultural institution located in the heart of San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Home to a world-class planetarium, aquarium, research center, and natural history museum-all under one living roof-our mission is to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. Our extensive collections span plants, animals, fossils, and cultural artifacts from across the globe and throughout history. We are a diverse team of leading biodiversity scientists, educators, storytellers, designers, and communicators who work collaboratively to advance knowledge and inspire action through science and storytelling. When you join the California Academy of Sciences, you become part of a mission-driven community that values curiosity, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you're working behind the scenes in research or engaging the public on the museum floor, your work will help connect people to the natural world and empower them to protect it.

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