Genetics Lab Technician

Summary 

Genetics Laboratory Technician is a position that is part of CRITFC’s Fishery Science Department, but will be located with the genetics group at the Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station in Hagerman, ID. This research group is involved in testing conservation, evolution, and ecological theories related to salmonids and other fishes. The Genetics Laboratory Technician will work under the Lead Geneticist and Lab Managers, in association with CRITFC geneticists and other technicians, as well as staff of the Fishery Science Department in Portland, OR. Efforts will focus on applying empirical genetics/genomics data to address questions related to conservation and recovery of steelhead, Chinook, sockeye, and coho salmon, sturgeon, lamprey, and other fishes of the Columbia River Basin.

This is an in-person position located in Hagerman, Idaho. 

Benefits 

CRITFC offers competitive compensation and an exceptional benefits package, including medical, dental, 401(k), 12 days of vacation (to start), 13 paid holidays, and paid sick time. We provide professional development opportunities, promote from within, and have a Native hiring preference as part of our commitment to our people. As a result, you will find a work environment that supports and inspires our shared goals of protecting the natural world and the tribal cultural connection to it.

Responsibilities 

Specific duties of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Prepare sampling materials for collecting fish tissue samples in the field
• Extract DNA from fish tissues
• Prepare DNA libraries for next-generation sequencing (e.g., GT-seq, whole genome)
• Analyze genetic markers on specialized laboratory equipment
• Data entry into Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and Progeny database
• Complete QA/QC protocols
• Communicate effectively with project leaders and team members
• Participate in inter-agency workgroups, as necessary
• Other duties as assigned and as appropriate to CRITFC goals and purposes.

Qualifications

The Genetics Laboratory Technician is required to meet one of the following education criteria: a bachelor’s degree in a field of science, an associate’s degree with one year’s experience, or three years’ experience in a related position. In addition, the technician must have demonstrated skills in the following areas.

• Knowledge of basic scientific principles achieved through experience or college level courses
• Proficiency with computer hardware and software (i.e., Microsoft Excel, Word)
• Willingness to learn laboratory techniques and protocols 
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining concentration
• Strong attention to detail
• Dedicated work ethic
• Good Interpersonal and communication skills

• Physical ability to stand 4-6 hours/day, perform assigned laboratory duties (requires keen motor skills), lift up to 30 pounds. Occasionally will be required to work with toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances with appropriate safety gear.

Additional Desirable Qualifications:

• Previous laboratory experience with molecular techniques (e.g., PCR)
• Experience with database imports, exports, and queries
• Knowledge of genomics and next-generation sequencing

Native Hiring Preference

CRITFC implements a tribal preference policy and encourages citizens and descendants of our member tribes (Nez Perce, Umatilla, Warm Springs, and Yakama) and other federally recognized tribes to apply.

CRITFC is committed to building a culturally inclusive community and a work environment that respects and inspires every person. Members of historically marginalized groups including women, people of color, those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ community, those who have served in the military, and members of other underrepresented communities are invited to apply. 

Recruitment period

Opened until filled