California Academy of Sciences

Biologist I, Water Chemistry Technician

California Academy of Sciences · Part-time

Sponsorship not specifiedDetected 26 days ago

ResearchMass SpectrometryCommunicationCollaborationProblem Solving

About the role

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.
Our extensive collections span plants, animals, fossils, and cultural artifacts from across the globe and throughout history.
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.

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
Maintains the lab in a clean and orderly manner in compliance with Association of Zoo and Aquarium (AZA) standards and OSHA.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities:
Basic knowledge of spectrophotometry, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), colorimetry, titration, pH meter, oxygen meter, and other standardized water testing equipment.
Ability to present programs and effectively convey information to guests, the general public, the media, colleagues, and in professional meetings.
Ability to work as a member of a team and engage in a culture that promotes trust, respect and accountability and also work independently.
Ability to work weekends and holidays on a routine basis.
Ability to transport 50 lbs.
Must be able to differentiate between colors.
Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.
A successful candidate will have the following:
Experience and Education:
Water Quality Certification Level 1 from Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) preferred.
Basic knowledge of standard aquarium life support systems, water quality testing methods, and parameters for maintaining aquatic habitats.

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.
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, Biology, Zoology, Marine or Aquatic Biology, or a related field of study preferred.

Basic understanding of the chemical and nutrient components and processes of seawater, including pH, alkalinity, and the nitrogen cycle.
Practical skills in handling lab equipment, pipettes, instruments, and glassware.
Excellent observation skills.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Effective organizational and problem solving skills.
Ability to utilize web-based communication and collaboration applications.
Ability to multitask, adapt, and prioritize.
Willingness to seek further training in laboratory techniques.
Ability to complete CPR/AED/First Aid certification.

Actual compensation will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualifications and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications and aligned with the internal peer group.
The Academy offers a total compensation package that emphasizes both base salary and comprehensive benefits based on the hours per week worked.
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.
Join a team dedicated to the Academy's mission, vision and values!
The mission of the California Academy of Sciences is to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration.
Further details regarding compensation and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.

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.
We hope you are inspired by what we do and are excited to contribute to our mission.
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.

This listing is sourced directly from California Academy of Sciences's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.