About this role
Hiring Organization: Center for Coastal Studies Job Type: Part-time, seasonal
Hours: 20-30 hours/week
Reports to: Director of Water Quality Monitoring Program Compensation: $25/hour Starting date: Immediately
Program Description The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) has monitored the water quality of Cape Cod Bay continuously for 20 years and Nantucket Sound for 15 years. Through collaborations with several other organizations, CCS currently collects water quality data and samples at over 120 stations, encompassing Cape Cod Bay, Nantucket Sound and the majority of the embayments and estuaries throughout Cape Cod. These stations are sampled regularly providing an impressive dataset that reveals long-term trends as well as seasonal and interannual variability. This is the longest-running and only comprehensive monitoring program for the Bay and the Sound and has provided valuable baseline data on nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous), water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen concentrations, chlorophyll and turbidity for the Cape’s surrounding coastal waters. These data have been integral to expanding our understanding of how human activities and management actions affect our surrounding water bodies.
Position Summary The Entry-Level Water Quality Laboratory Technician assists with the collection, preparation, and analysis of water samples to help ensure compliance with water quality standards and regulatory requirements. Under the supervision of senior laboratory staff, the technician performs routine laboratory testing, maintains accurate records, and helps maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment. This position provides on-the-job training and is ideal for individuals beginning a career in environmental or laboratory sciences.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Perform routine chemical analyses following established procedures and standard operating protocols. • Measure water quality parameters such as turbidity, chlorophyll, alkalinity and iron • Assist with calibration, cleaning, and routine maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment. • Prepare reagents, solutions, and laboratory supplies under supervision. • Follow laboratory quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures to ensure accurate and reliable test results. • Maintain laboratory cleanliness and properly dispose of waste according to safety guidelines. • Assist with inventory management by stocking laboratory supplies and notifying supervisors of low inventory. • Follow all laboratory safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). • Perform other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications • Associate degree or coursework in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred. • Previous laboratory experience through school, internships, or volunteer work • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office. • Ability to learn laboratory procedures and operate scientific equipment. • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate recordkeeping. • Good communication and organizational skills. • Ability to work independently after training and as part of a team.
• US citizenship or proper US work visas
Physical Requirements • Ability to stand and work in a laboratory for extended periods. • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds. • Manual dexterity to handle laboratory equipment and samples. • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.
Working Conditions • Work is performed primarily in a laboratory environment. • Occasional field sampling may be required. • Exposure to laboratory chemicals and biological materials while following established safety procedures.
Preferred Qualifications • Basic knowledge of laboratory safety practices. • Familiarity with environmental science or water quality concepts. • Valid driver's license for occasional field sampling.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. • Willingness to learn laboratory testing methods and regulations. • Strong attention to detail and accuracy. • Excellent time management and organizational skills. • Ability to maintain confidentiality and integrity of laboratory data. • Dependable, reliable, and committed to workplace safety.
Career Growth This position offers training and development opportunities for advancement into Water Quality Laboratory Technician, Senior Laboratory Technician, or Water Quality Analyst roles.
The Center for Coastal Studies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Diversity of opinions, experience, and backgrounds is a key asset. $25 per hour