Laboratory Assistant

Summary:
This position is responsible for providing diagnostic and research laboratory technical support for the Alaska SeaLife Center. Duties include support of the day-to-day quality control and analyses including but not limited to hematology, serum chemistry, microbiology (aerobic and anaerobic), urinalysis, fecal parasite exams, and water coliform tests. This position assists with and performs diagnostic and medical tasks to ensure the health and welfare of all animals, as well as supports internal and external research projects.

Education/Training Requirements:
Successful applicants must have completed a minimum of two years for a Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or related science. At least 3 months (may be as a volunteer or intern) experience with laboratory techniques (i.e. urinalysis, automated and manual blood analysis, basic cytology, etc) and experience working with biological specimens from exotic or zoological animals. Certification in laboratory safety, hazardous materials handling, emergency first aid, and open water SCUBA diving is preferred.

Essential Duties:
1. Provides routine diagnostic laboratory technical support as part of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s program of veterinary medicine or assigned research projects starting with receiving samples from staff, analyzing (manual and automated techniques) samples, sending samples to outside laboratories as required, reporting results, and archiving samples
2. Learns and assists with all aspects of diagnostic, laboratory, and necropsy areas including general organization and cleanliness of the space and equipment; inventory of samples and supplies; appropriate disposal of biological and chemical waste to maintain biosafety; and maintenance of equipment including calibration, QA/QC, and repairs.
3. Maintains a variety of records and logs in paper and/or electronic format to include test results, send outs, equipment maintenance, and others as needed.
4. Assists with educational and training presentations for visitors, volunteers, and staff on a variety of topics including clinical laboratory functions, animal health, treatment plans, and staff safety.
5. Assists with veterinary procedures and animal care as needed.
6. Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, good will, cooperation, and striving towards providing a high standard of service.
7. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
8. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Skills and Abilities:
Successful candidates should possess: exceptional time management/organizational skills; ability to communicate in oral and written form effectively within various levels of the organization; excellent computer skills including experience with Google applications, Excel, Word, and database programs; and knowledge of basic research methods, data collection techniques, and statistical analysis. Candidates should be able to be self-motivated, independent workers, detail oriented, investigative, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Ability to swim; see and hear; move about; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools and controls; and sit. Must be physically fit with a good sense of balance, able to lift and move 50 pounds. Ability to work with and around large, wild animals.

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Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

APPLICATION DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED Apply by 2/24/2025 for full consideration

START DATE: May 1, 2025 END DATE: June 30, 2025 (Start & End dates negotiable)

PAY RATE: $18.50-19.00

Please upload your resume, cover letter and letter of reference when you apply.

Must be able to pass a background check.