Azura is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support the NOAA Fisheries Office of Sustainable Fisheries and the National Seafood Inspection Laboratory (NSIL). Laboratory objectives include conducting chemical, microbiological, and food safety analysis to support the NOAA’s Product Quality and Safety Programs and other federal, state, and private clients. Analyses performed by this position relate to tasks such as evaluating compliance with seafood processors HACCP requirements, auditing the effectiveness of NOAA’s Seafood Inspection Program, identifying illegal or unsafe practices related to seafood, prosecuting perpetrators of illegal or unsafe practices related to seafood, and meeting requirements for exporting seafood.

Having high attention to detail and the ability to manage short project timelines are critical skills for this position. Potential candidates must also possess the curiosity and ability to find solutions and resolve issues based on available resources. Applicants must be able to operate independently, manage their own work schedule, and dedicate blocks of time for uninterrupted focus.

This is a full-time position. Expected days and hours of work are Monday through Friday (40 hours per week) during normal operating hours of the facility.

Duties

The Laboratory Technician will perform a variety of tasks related to the NSIL objectives. Specific tasks are expected to include the following:

• Perform sample and tissue extraction for detection of PSP and DA biotoxins and other metal analyses in seafood.
• Use ELISA test kits to monitor seafood for banned and adulterating chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
• Prepare media and perform basic, routine microbiology techniques.
• Conduct inventories of laboratory supplies, instruments, and equipment in order to maintain the readiness of the laboratory.
• Clean and prepare laboratory spaces for analyses.
• Washing of glassware and other analyses as required.
• Perform calibrations and maintenance of basic lab equipment, such as temperature sensors, pipettes, thermometers, etc.
• Perform document control user functions in MediaLab software.
• Perform data QA/QC review.
• Document laboratory activities to support NSIL’s Quality Management System and ISO 17025 standards.
• Follow safety procedures and assist with tasks (eye wash checks, etc.).
• Attend staff meetings.
• Follow NSIL policies, acting professionally, and contributing positively to the office by maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace.

Place of Performance

• Work will be conducted on site at the National Seafood Inspection Laboratory in Pascagoula, Mississippi.

Compensation and Benefits

• Pay will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Competitive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance and life and disability insurance. You will be eligible for a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match and will receive paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry, biology, marine biology, related discipline, or equivalent.
• Experience providing standardized technical laboratory support
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
• Strong organizational skills with ability to work independently and comply with strict project deadlines
• In compliance with federal law, all applicants must be able to prove that they are legally able to work in the United States and pass a security/background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• A working knowledge of biological laboratory safety precautions and protocols for safe handling and the disposal of hazardous agents and re-agents, chemicals, and materials
• Developmental-level knowledge of the techniques, methods, scientific terminology, scientific elements, and procedures of a technical area and the ability to select, adjust, and apply alternative techniques, methods, procedures, equipment, and instruments
• Experience in adjusting and using technical equipment and instruments, the ability to evaluate and analyze data, the ability to adapt and carry out established tests or calculations, and experience in recording and disseminating results

How to Apply

• Prepare a single PDF document that includes:
  • a 1-page cover letter that specifies the position to which you are applying; your earliest available start date; and your level of knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience as they pertain to the key responsibilities and desired strengths of this position;
  • a resume (no more than 3 pages) targeted specifically towards the duties and qualifications of this position; and
  • phone and email contact information for 2 to 4 professional references who can provide a knowledgeable assessment of your job-specific qualifications.
• Name the PDF in the format of Lastname‐Firstname_Application_Lab Technician.
• Send the PDF to anna@azuraco.com with “Lab Technician” in the subject line.
• Please email anna@azuraco.com with questions.

This is an immediate opening. You are encouraged to apply as soon as you can, as applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Azura Consulting LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal or state law. We strongly encourage all qualified persons to apply for this position.

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Azura Consulting LLC is an economically disadvantaged woman-owned small business specializing in protected species conservation, management, and research.