Summary:
This position is responsible for providing diagnostic and research laboratory technical support for the Alaska SeaLife Center. Duties include oversight 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:
Grade 2

  • Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry or related sciences.
  • Minimum of 1 year of 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.
  • Highly desired specific skills include familiarity with Statistics (such as R), Hydrogen Peroxide Production, RNA:DNA Ratio analysis, Heat Shock Protein assays, q PCR and RT-qPCR sequencing, diet analysis, and respirometry.
    Grade 3
    In addition to the above,
  • Minimum of 2 years or completion of a laboratory or veterinary certificate program. 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.

Essential Duties:
1. Provides routine and emergency diagnostic laboratory technical support as part of Alaska SeaLife Center 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, archiving samples, and maintaining inventory records. Learns and assists with necropsies on site and in the field. Assists with field and vessel based projects. Grade 3: Coordinates and conducts necropsies on site and in the field. 
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; procurement and stocking of materials; appropriate disposal of biological and chemical waste to maintain biosafety; and maintenance of equipment including calibration, QA/QC, and repairs.
Grade 3: Conducts activities independently in these areas.
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.
Grade 3: Maintains and develops these records and logs.
4. Assists with obtaining samples and data for research projects for veterinary staff and internal
research and maintains inventory of incoming and outcoming samples.
Grade 3: Coordinates with external collaborators to determine, obtain authorization for, and
provide sample and data as requested.
5. Provides data for reports and scientific publications.
Grade 3: Helps draft reports and may develop and complete reports, publications, and
presentations as assigned.
6. 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.
Grade 3: Develops and leads educational and training presentations.
7. Supports undergraduate interns, shadows, and volunteers as well as staff from other departments
when participating in laboratory procedures. Assists with performance evaluations.
Grade 3: Supervises interns, shadows, and volunteers and prepares and gives performance
evaluations.
8. Assists with veterinary procedures and animal care as needed.
9. Serves as an ambassador for ASLC’s mission by fostering good relations with visitors,
volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive
attitudes, goodwill, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.
10. Complies with Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Excellent communication and organizational skills.
  • Solution-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement.
  • Knowledge of research methods, data collection techniques, and statistical analysis.
  • Growth mindset with a commitment to self and team professional development

Physical Requirements:
Must meet the physical demands of the position, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds without assistance, access and physically inspect animal exhibits and pools, and work in varied environments (both indoors and outdoors). Ability to observe and interpret animal behavior and assess indicators or risk or stress that may require intervention. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

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Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  OPEN UNTIL FILLED      Apply by 5/4/2025 for full consideration 

START DATE:  August 1, 2025 or ASAP                   

PAY RATE: Laboratory Tech 1: $18.75 - $19.50   Laboratory Tech 2: $21.50

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

Must be able to pass a background check.

In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, non-job related disability, or any other protected group status.

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