OPPORTUNITY: Phytoplankton laboratory scientist

About the Role:
The primary function of this position is to serve as a phytoplankton laboratory scientist and uphold the highest quality standards of identification and quantification of central Puget Sound phytoplankton. The incumbent will work with a team of scientists to implement the best available science and technology in support of long-term monitoring trends in the central Puget Sound. The marine monitoring program tracks the phytoplankton communities in the Central Basin which provides vital information about the health and functionality of our local marine ecosystems. This work contributes to King County’s Clean Water and Healthy Habitat and Climate Change initiatives.

About the Team:
The King County Environmental Laboratory (KCEL) is a full-service regional laboratory housing 6 environmental analytical disciplines which safeguard our regions precious environmental resources. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a well-respected scientific team known for: producing high quality data sets used in long-term water quality trend analysis, supporting public health, pollution control, and a wide range of other County regulatory compliance functions.

Commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice:
King County, named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is a diverse and vibrant community that represents cultures from around the world. Our True North is to create a welcoming community where everyone can thrive. We prioritize equity, racial and social justice, making it a foundational and daily expectation for all employees. As a Phytoplankton Scientist, you will actively apply these principles in all aspects of your work. Learn more about our commitment at http://www.kingcounty.gov/equity.

Apply now for a rewarding career at the Water and Land Resources Division of King County Department of Natural Resources & Parks (DNRP). Join our talented workforce in protecting and restoring the natural environment and promoting more resilient, sustainable, and equitable communities. Enjoy training, comprehensive benefits, and growth opportunities.

Job Duties

What You Will Be Doing:

1. Perform sample analysis including microscopic identification and Flowcam sample processing using established standard operating procedures, accepted phytoplankton identification references and Flowcam Image Analysis Software.
2. Perform QA/QC of image data sets to ensure results meet QC requirements. Peer review and process approved data into KCEL’s Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
3. Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair complex instruments. Order laboratory equipment, services, and supplies: determine needs, evaluate alternatives, select vendors, and perform associated administrative duties. Help develop equipment specifications and negotiate service contracts.
4. Consult with customers in planning projects, assigning analytical methods, solving problems and concerns related to the analyses, and serving as a technical resource. Prepare reports summarizing results of laboratory analyses with narrative highlights and data interpretation.
5. Follow safety requirements and guidelines and recognize and report potential safety hazards. Represent unit on Safety Committee.

Qualifications You Bring:

• A bachelor’s degree in marine biology, oceanography, or a related field of study, or an equivalent combination of experience and education is required.
• In addition to a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, a minimum of 2 years of recent laboratory experience identifying marine phytoplankton using microscopy and taxonomic keys. These additional 2 years may be academic or workplace.
• Knowledge and understanding of phytoplankton data analysis.
• Working knowledge of computer applications including Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook.
• Proven effective communications skills (verbal and written, including technical report writing and standard operating procedures).
• Demonstrated ability to participate in team problem solving.
• Demonstrated ability to promote mutual respect and acceptance of all workers in a diverse work group.
• Demonstrated ability to work under supervision with progressive independence.

Competencies You Bring:

• Peer Relationships: Works cooperatively with others across the organization to achieve shared objectives.
• Customer Focus: Creates and delivers solutions that meet customer expectations.
• Action oriented: Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasms.
• Collaborates: Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Interpersonal savvy: Relating openly and comfortably and comfortably with a diverse group.
• Communicates effectively: Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.

It Would Be Great if You Also Bring:

• Attendance at specialized workshops in marine phytoplankton identification.
• Experience with image analysis software.
• Experience with Flowcam or similar instrumentation.
• Laboratory experience with aquatic toxicology testing, ELISA or LC/MS/MS.
• Experience with a Laboratory Information System (LIMS).

Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills

Work Location: This is an onsite position at the Environmental Lab, 322 West Ewing, Seattle, WA 98119, Washington.

Work Schedule: This full-time position works a 40-hour work week Monday through Friday.

Union Representation: This position is not represented by a union.

Physical Requirement: Must be able to perform all of the primary job functions. This includes the ability to stand and work at the bench for 4 hours at a time, work with method associated chemicals background-noise, and be able to lift 40 pounds.

Application and Selection Process:
We welcome applications from all qualified applicants. We value diversity, diverse perspectives and life experience and encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

Application materials will be screened for clarity, completeness and alignment with the experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skills essential for this role to determine which candidates may be invited to participate in one or more panel interviews.

To apply, submit a:

• Complete Application
• Resume
• Optional Cover Letter (will be reviewed if submitted)

Who to Contact: For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact Calvin Rivers at 206-263-1986 or [email protected].