26-107: Research Laboratory Specialist at Colorado… · Fort…

Summary: Colorado State University is a thriving community focused on transforming lives and improving the human condition through research and service. The Research Laboratory Specialist will work at the US Forest Service’s Rocky Mountain Research Station biogeochemical laboratory, conducting water quality monitoring and analysis to support resource managers and policy makers. Responsibilities: - Analyze chemistry and test low-ionic strength precipitation, stream water, soil nutrients and plant tissues - Conduct recurring quantitative or qualitative analyses using analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs, spectrophotometers, total organic carbon analyzers, and mass spectrometers - Prepare laboratory samples for analysis by using methods such as drying, grinding, filtration, preservation, and centrifugation - Compile data from multiple sources and analyze results of field data, laboratory data, and/or literature search. Recognize and resolve deviations in data. Generate, assemble, and edit data through various test platforms. Organize information and interprets results - Coordinate and track shipping of sampling supplies to collaborating USFS units, track and log sample arrival and analysis - Catalog and organize new and archived samples - Develop and maintain detailed records of all experimental or other protocols and results and ensure they are neatly kept and catalogued in appropriate format - Maintain detailed laboratory records such as computer database observation records, graphical representations, and spreadsheets showing calculations from laboratory data - Record information pertaining to the storage of samples and reagents and complete appropriate tracking/inventory system information - Present data to the supervisor in a logical and systematic fashion - Responsible for some data analysis including arithmetic calculations, algebra, graphing of data using interactive computer programs and preliminary statistical evaluations - Use appropriate handling procedures for hazardous specimens, chemicals, etc. Adhere to safe laboratory practices for working in biosafety environments. Properly disposes of potentially hazardous waste - Conduct routine laboratory support functions such as shipping, receiving, sample storage, ordering, inventory, or other comparable tasks - Determine compliance with safety requirements, establish inventory and equipment maintenance requirements and maintains appropriate inventories and maintenance schedules - Maintain laboratory stock and order materials as needed Required Qualifications: - Bachelor's Degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering - experience calibrating and operating chemistry- specific analytical instruments associated with water, soil and vegetation analysis such as ion chromatography, dissolved organic carbon and nitrogen analysis, dry combustion C and N analysis, flow injection auto-analyzers, fluorescence spectroscopy, nephelometers, and acid-neutralizing capacity titrations - experience performing standard wet chemistry laboratory procedures and using computer software related to laboratory specific instrumentation - experience writing laboratory reports identifying a sample and stating the methods and procedures used for analysis, validity of the data and results - Ability to analyze instrument precision and identify outliers - Experience procuring supplies for a laboratory Required Skills: Ion chromatography, Dissolved organic carbon analysis, Nitrogen analysis, Dry combustion carbon and nitrogen analysis, Flow injection auto-analyzers, Fluorescence spectroscopy, Nephelometers, Acid-neutralizing capacity titrations, Wet chemistry laboratory procedures, Laboratory report writing, Instrument precision analysis, Laboratory supply procurement Benefits: Robust benefits package, Collaborative atmosphere, Focus on work-life balance