Summary

This position is considered flexible depending on needs at a level of a technician or biologist to support activities of the mobile lab and the genetics program in Hagerman. The Lab Technician/Biologist-Mobile Lab is a position that requires expertise with laboratory procedures and the ability to adapt protocols to field situations in a mobile lab. This will involve following modified protocols to generate genotypes for various fish species on an expedited timeline. The position will be located with the genetics group at the Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station in Hagerman, ID but will require travel for extensive periods of time to complete lab duties when the mobile lab is deployed. In offseason periods when the mobile lab is not deployed, duties will include a combination of genotyping duties, troubleshooting, protocol development, and assisting with planning for upcoming seasons. This position will be supervised by a Fisheries Geneticist who also works directly with the mobile lab during deployment and assists with coordination of activities, and the Lead Geneticist. The position will involve working in a team setting with various CRITFC staff including technicians, geneticists, and others. Efforts will focus on applying empirical genetics/genomics data to address questions related to conservation and recovery of steelhead, Chinook, sockeye, and coho salmon, sturgeon, lamprey, and other fishes of the Columbia River Basin.

Benefits

CRITFC offers competitive compensation and an exceptional benefits package, including medical, dental, 401(k), 12 days of vacation (to start), 13 paid holidays, and paid sick time. We provide professional development opportunities, promote from within, and have a Native hiring preference as part of our commitment to our people. As a result, you will find a work environment that supports and inspires our shared goals of protecting the natural world and the tribal cultural connection to it.

Responsibilities

Specific duties of this position include, but are not limited to:

Prepare sampling materials for collecting fish tissue samples in the field.
Extract DNA from fish tissues and prepare DNA libraries for genotyping.
Analyze genetic markers on specialized laboratory equipment.
Complete QA/QC protocols and data entry into spreadsheets and internal databases.
Assist with modifying and troubleshooting lab protocols for applications in a mobile lab.
Assist with planning and coordination of mobile lab activities.
Communicate effectively with project leaders and team members.
Participate in inter-agency workgroups, as necessary.
Other duties as assigned and as appropriate to CRITFC goals and purposes.

Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree in a field of science; alternatively an Associate's degree with 3 years' experience with laboratory techniques.
Experience with genetics laboratory techniques including genotyping and sequencing protocols.
Proficiency with various computing software and hardware.
Dedicated work ethic with ability to complete tasks on a deadline with strong attention to detail.
Effective writing and verbal communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop, guide and work within interdisciplinary teams.
Physical ability to stand 4-6 hours/day, perform assigned laboratory duties (requires keen motor skills), lift up to 30 pounds. Occasionally will be required to work with toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances with appropriate safety gear.
Must be able to travel for extensive periods of time to complete lab duties when the mobile lab is deployed.

CRITFC Motor Vehicle Policy

This job occasionally requires driving a CRITFC vehicle or your own vehicle for business (mileage compensated), and therefore you must be able to meet the terms of the CRITFC Motor Vehicle policy. Per the policy, applicants are required to have a valid driver's license and a clean driving record for the past three years. This includes a three-year record clear of the following:

Reckless Driving
Driving Under the Influence
Suspension or revoked license
No more than two at-fault accidents
No more than one major violation or two minor violations.

Native Hiring Preference

CRITFC implements a tribal preference policy and encourages citizens and descendants of our member tribes (Nez Perce, Umatilla, Warm Springs, and Yakama) and other federally recognized tribes to apply.

CRITFC is committed to building a culturally inclusive community and a work environment that respects and inspires every person. Members of historically marginalized groups including women, people of color, those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, those who have served in the military, and members of other underrepresented communities are invited to apply.

Recruitment period

Opened until filled

Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission jobs

Lab Technician/Biologist - Mobile Lab