Lead & NON Lead Invasive Species Lab Technician – 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO

Full Job Description

Requirements

Lead & Non-Lead Lab Technician:
Conduct Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) laboratory analysis, using standardized scientific protocols, from various waters throughout Colorado. Specifically, this position will conduct microscopy and taxonomic identification from field samples for mollusks, crayfish, macrophytes, zooplankton, and phytoplankton. Water quality analysis will also be
conducted. Detailed record keeping and the ability to follow strict scientific protocols is required including with the use of state owned equipment. Candidates must be able to work both independently and as part of a team.
Candidates may also assist the Early Detection & Rapid Response (EDRR) Specialist and Invasive Species Program Manager with any rapid response efforts that arise as a result of the sampling and monitoring program. This position will report to the ANS Laboratory at 6060 Broadway in Denver 8:00am to 4:30pm daily, Monday through Friday. Work hours will be strictly limited to 40 per week (overtime compensation will only be granted in special circumstances).
Lead Specific Duties:
Perform leadership related duties to accomplish statewide objectives for invasive species monitoring. The lead lab technician is responsible for the following tasks in addition to other lab staff duties:
Serve as the lead communicator between lab staff and the EDRR Specialist
Ensure lab staff follow all procedures outlined in the State Invasive Species Program ANS Laboratory Manual and Guide
Ensure the ANS Laboratory has all necessary equipment and supplies at all times
Maintain equipment in good working order and report any problems or issues directly to the EDRR Specialist
Perform data entry and technical report writing
Enter and verify the accuracy of data in the Sampling and Monitoring Data Management System and other data management systems
Ensure all lab staff members are respectful and conflict management occurs when needed

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Must be 16 years of age or older
2. Must have a current and valid driver’s license required for operating a state vehicle and an acceptable driving record
3. Possess basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite)
4. Ability to follow strict scientific protocols and perform repetitive work
5. Ability to record data accurately and identify discrepancies
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
1. B.S. in natural resources/botany/fisheries/wildlife or other natural resource field OR at least 1 year completed coursework toward a degree in the field
2. Leadership experience, especially for the Lead Lab Technician
3. Taxonomic expertise of aquatic species including aquatic plants, mollusks, crayfish, zooplankton, phytoplankton, algae, and diatoms
4. Experience conducting microscopy and laboratory analysis
5. Experience performing data entry
6. Experience with technical writing and statistical analysis
7. Experience with ArcGIS software
8. Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)
9. Excellent organization skills and attention to detail

Additional Information

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us.
ADAAA Accommodations
Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us. at least five business days before the date that any accommodation will be required to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date.

E-Verify employer:
The Department of Natural Resources participates in E-Verify in accordance with the program's Right to Work for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.

Toll–Free Applicant Support - Technical Help
If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt upload (attach) it. The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with these types of technical issues.