The Algae Technician will play an important role in the daily care of all microalgae species. A suitable candidate will contribute to all aspects of feeding and caring for algae across bag and K-tube systems, which will include monitoring, counting, inspection under a microscope, transfers, and data analysis. The Algae Technician will ensure that algae cultures consistently have a clean and productive environment in order to achieve optimal growth and quality standards.
You Will:
- Perform duties accurately and according to protocols, providing optimal care to the algae independently and with minimal supervision, once trained.
- Monitor algae culture vessels from start to finish; assist in fabrication, setup, inoculation, harvesting, teardown, and cleaning of components.
- Prepare media, monitor cultures, maintain axenicity, and take samples
- Routinely clean culture systems (tanks, plumbing, pumps, etc)
- Consistently monitor system water quality and perform routine water quality tests
- Maintain daily records of care activities and observations, noting patterns and changes.
- Inspect algae material using a dissecting and/or compound microscope.
- Assist with and maintain inventory of equipment and supplies.
- Daily administering and monitoring of algae production and feedings, monitoring appropriate cell counts in shellfish culture tanks
- Perform other duties as needed or directed by the supervisor.
You Are (or You Have):
- A degree in marine phycology, marine biology/ecology, aquaculture, aquatic chemistry, or another related field
- Able to work well independently, and as part of a team
- Self-motivated and well organized
- Good time management skills and multi-tasking abilities
- A general knowledge of aquaculture
- Able to complete repetitive tasks with a consistent level of efficiency/quality
- Good communication and data collection/management skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft office programs and Google Suite (Excel, Google docs, etc)
- At least 1 year prior experience in a microalgal production facility or shellfish aquaculture facility where algae culture is a critical component of operations
Physical and Other Requirements
- Ability to work at least 40 hours per week; including occasional weekends and holidays
- Ability to stand for extended periods, both inside an air-conditioned indoor lab with concrete floors and outside on on uneven surfaces.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to perform fine manipulations with hands and fingers.
- Ability to use simple arithmetic skills in performing duties.
- Ability or willingness to learn to utilize laboratory equipment and work in a sterile environment.
- Ability to work with and around chemicals such as bleach and acid, following all safety guidelines
This position also requires a flexible work schedule that sometimes varies in the number of hours worked in a day, or in which the stop and start times in a day may vary. This may include working at any hour of the day (in the case of water quality/mechanical emergency), and workdays in excess of eight hours. The employee must also be able to work weekends on a rotating schedule.
