As-Needed Lab Biologist Technician

As-Needed Lab Biologist Technician role at Dudek Location(s): Sacramento/San Joaquin River Region, California Practice/Department: Biology Internal Title: As-Needed Biologist I Work Environment: Laboratory Compensation: $31/hour Overview Dudek’s journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California’s water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100% employee‑owned firm supporting clients nationwide and delivering projects that improve and protect the built and natural environments of communities throughout the United States. Our work has been recognized by leading industry organizations, earning multiple national Top Workplace Awards. Our employee‑owners are unified by a singular commitment to supporting projects that address key societal issues such as renewable energy transition, infrastructure hardening, environmental protection, and community resilience. We invite you to learn more about our award‑winning culture, the benefits and perks of being a Dudekian, and the projects you will have the opportunity to shape. Who You Are As an employee‑owner, you embrace accountability, work safely, collaborate, and think resourcefully and independently. Like all Dudekians, you are curious and solution‑oriented, adapt quickly to changes, approach challenges with a spirit of innovation, and consistently demonstrate a solution‑oriented mindset. How You’ll Make an Impact Dudek is currently seeking a part‑time as‑needed (variable hours per week) laboratory technician to join our biological resources team. The successful candidate will help Dudek staff collect and analyze laboratory and environmental data related to aquatic invasive species management and prepare associated analyses and reports. Responsibilities Collect and interpret analytical and environmental chemistry, biology, toxicology, hydrology, meteorology, and related data; observe and clearly document field conditions, meeting notes, and other relevant information related to aquatic invasive species management. Maintain familiarity with standard and specialized aquatic toxicology laboratory equipment, including water quality testing instruments (pH, EC, turbidity, etc.), hot water baths, compound microscopes, laboratory glassware, flow‑through aquaculture systems, and submersible pumps. Review safety data sheets for all chemicals used in the laboratory and strictly adhere to guidelines related to safe handling and required personal protective equipment (PPE). Adhere to California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) collecting and biosecurity standards in accordance with an existing Scientific Collecting Permit (SCP). Analyze and prepare written reports, tables, maps, and drawings using standard and specialty statistical analysis, GIS, and CEQA guidelines. Collect water and biological samples for subcontracted laboratory analysis. Interact with laboratories to obtain desired and quality‑assured results. Use field equipment and thoroughly document field conditions and project status, including phone calls and emails to project managers, subcontractors, and other colleagues. Review, summarize, and critique scientific literature. Contact peers, colleagues, and others to gain clarification and gather information as needed. Contact outside entities as directed by project manager to gain or present information on project status. Adhere to assigned levels of effort for tasks given. Demonstrate existing familiarity with, and/or willingness and ability to learn, standard concepts, practices, and procedures related to environmental consulting. Leverage technical experience and common sense and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Perform a variety of tasks working under little or no supervision, using a degree of creativity and latitude as required. Conduct all work with safety in mind, including operating mechanical equipment and vehicles. Maintain strict attention to detail in all work. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, botany, environmental science, or a related natural resources field from an accredited college or university. Specialized training in biology, environmental science, and/or toxicology in a laboratory setting. Proficiency using the Microsoft Office environment – Outlook, Word, Excel, and Access. Ability to conduct all work with safety in mind, including operating mechanical equipment, laboratory equipment, and vehicles. Strong written and oral communication skills. Must possess a valid driver’s license and active personal automobile liability insurance by the first day of employment. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with aquatic invasive species (AIS) ecology. Experience handling live aquatic animals in a laboratory setting. Ability to read, understand, and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write detailed technical reports and correspondence. Strong grasp of mathematical concepts such as probability, statistical inference, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions applied to practical situations. Ability to work with mathematical concepts in standardized situations and prioritize tasks effectively. Strong customer service emphasis and solution‑oriented approach to work. Conscientiousness and detail orientation with demonstrated accuracy. Good judgment and sound decision‑making skills. Working Conditions The majority of the work is performed in a compact laboratory setting with some limited maneuverable space adjacent to a man‑made water conveyance channel within an active fish collection facility with heavy machinery and moving vehicles. This role operates in a field laboratory (non‑office) environment and routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and hand‑held devices. The job requires some outdoor work, which may involve excessive noise, uneven walking surfaces, extreme weather, and moving vehicles and equipment. Physical Requirements Work on a computer, sitting, or standing for long periods of time in a laboratory setting. Use of hands, reaching, and performing delicate laboratory tasks with steady hands. Walking, sitting, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. Attending meetings, both in person and virtually, and speaking on the phone with peers, clients, and colleagues. Specific vision abilities, including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Conduct biological laboratory work in a remote environment, often under adverse weather conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain). Carry equipment and field gear weighing up to 30 pounds. Work in proximity to insects, wildlife, and potentially hazardous environments (e.g., machinery, wetlands, uneven ground). EEO Statement Dudek is committed to creating a workplace where all employees, regardless of background, feel valued, respected, and have equal opportunities to succeed. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to our business success, and we are dedicated to fostering a culture where everyone can thrive. We are committed to fair and equitable processes, based on merit, free from any discrimination. Dudek is genuinely committed to equal employment opportunities within our company and on our project teams. Dudek is also committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Dudek’s operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee of Dudek, including supervisors and coworkers. Equal employment opportunities will be extended to all persons (including those with disability and veteran status) in all aspects of the employment relationship, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination. Any employee who violates this policy and Dudek’s commitment to equal employment opportunities will be subject to disciplinary action. Additional Information All positions are based in the United States and require U.S. work authorization. Benefits Compensation: $31/hour. Successful candidates must pass a pre‑employment drug test and background check prior to beginning employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr