Laboratory Technician

Overview

We are seeking a Laboratory Technician who will focus on analytical and biological laboratory work. This position resides in the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health Group in the Environmental Sciences Division, Biodiversity & Sustainable Systems Section, BESSD, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

• Receive, label, safely store, and process various samples (biota including fish and invertebrates, sediment, and water) for contamination and toxicity analysis.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Conduct routine tests and analytical procedures following strict standard operating procedures (SOPs), including performing mercury and methyl mercury analysis.
• Sterilize and maintain laboratory equipment and glassware; monitor supply levels and assist with ordering and organizing supplies.
• Conduct routine tasks, prepare supplies, and assist scientists with executing toxicology assays and experiments.
• Maintain laboratory cultures of standard test organisms such as algae and Daphnia for use in toxicology experiments, ensuring healthy conditions are met.
• Provide care for larger aquatic animals housed in laboratory aquaria following Animal Care and Use Committee (ACUC) protocols.
• Accurately record and maintain datasets, observations, and test results.
• Contribute figures, tables and text to monthly, periodic and annual reports.
• Occasional weekend work that is prescheduled on a rotating basis to monitor and feed live organisms in the laboratory.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

• An AS or BS in a relevant scientific or technical field such as biology, chemistry, physics, or engineering.
• Proficiency in core laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, measuring pH and other water chemistry parameters, preparing solutions, weighing).
• Familiarity with relevant analytical instrumentation and software.
• Strong computer skills for data entry, analysis (e.g., Excel), and report writing.
• Ability to follow precise instructions.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods.

• Previous hands-on laboratory experience, potentially gained through coursework, internships, or prior employment, is strongly preferred.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience working with live organisms, especially plankton.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.