Applied Research Water Science Laboratory Manager
The laboratory manager oversees the operations of the Aquarium’s water science laboratory and water testing program. The manager is responsible for the Aquarium’s water chemistry and microbiology testing protocols, techniques, and quality controls; laboratory chemical inventory; supplies; laboratory safety; equipment and instrument maintenance; and research and development of analytical techniques and water quality improvements in support of animal health and water quality. This position supervises laboratory staff and trains and mentors staff and volunteers.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Oversees and is responsible for development and execution of laboratory and on-site analyses for Aquarium system water, including physical chemistry parameters (such as pH and dissolved oxygen) and nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphate)
o Techniques utilized include spectrophotometry, chromatography, total organic carbon analyses, titrations, flow cytometry, particle analysis, and use of handheld meters
Responsible for the laboratory facility, chemical storage and safety, supply inventory, staff safety, and operational and testing protocols
Responsible for determining water testing requirements for new exhibits and/or changing exhibits; liaisons with relevant staff in Husbandry and Facilities to adjust or create testing plans according to facility and animal health needs
Responsible for managing four direct reports: two Water Quality Specialists, one Microbiology Specialist and one Instrumentation Specialist
Oversees sample collection and tank-side water quality assessments throughout the main Aquarium, quarantine, and relevant off-site systems
Determines and manages water sampling and analysis schedules
Oversees, develops, and is responsible for Quality Control and Quality Assurance protocols for lab testing
Oversees, develops, and guides relevant applied research in the fields of water chemistry, water science, water quality, and analytical techniques
Interfaces with other departments, including Facilities and Husbandry Operations, and Applied Research staff to maintain proper water quality parameters in all aquarium systems
Responsible for routine maintenance and repair/replacement of analytical equipment
Establishes and manages preventative maintenance and cleaning schedules for laboratory and lab equipment
Manages service contracts and maintenance visits for lab equipment
Oversees Applied Research chemical inventory database and Safety Data Sheet files
Develops lab safety program, performs safety audits, and trains staff in chemical use, chemical storage, waste disposal, and spill response
Trains new staff, volunteers, and interns on analytical protocols and laboratory safety
Tracks expenditures and works with the Director of Applied Research to develop laboratory supply budgets
Maintains knowledge and understanding of current water science techniques, protocols, and regulations
Supervises, trains, hires, and mentors the Applied Research laboratory staff, volunteers, and interns
Skills & Experience
Education & Experience
Absolutely Required Skills / Knowledge / Ability / Experience or Education
Master’s degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science, hydrology, engineering, or a related field; or related experience
Minimum five years of professional experience in an analytical laboratory, at least two years having occurred in an aquarium, zoo, or environmental water quality laboratory
Minimum three years of experience working as a laboratory coordinator, supervisor, or manager
Minimum two years of experience directly supervising staff
Understanding of the chemical and nutrient components and processes of seawater, including pH, alkalinity, gas pressure theory, and the nitrogen cycle
Working knowledge of current laboratory methods for nutrient analyses in seawater, including UV spectrophotometry
Understanding of microbiology regulatory requirements and testing techniques for AZA facilities and for coastal waters
Understanding of instrumentation used in water quality monitoring, including pH, dissolved oxygen, ORP, total gas pressure, temperature, light, and flow
Experience coaching students, interns, or employees in research methods and project development
Excellent attention to detail, organization, problem solving abilities, and planning skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to work occasional nights or weekends, if required, and to be on call for emergencies
Must possess a valid California driver’s license and maintain clearance in the DMV Pull Program
Ability to work within, and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Core Values
Demonstrated commitment to Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Leadership Competencies
Desired Skills / Knowledge / Ability / Experience or Education
Working knowledge of liquid chromatography (HPLC) or other chromatography methods
Working knowledge of handheld and in-line instrumentation used for water monitoring outside the lab
Working knowledge of Coulter Counter analyzer and particle counts/sizing
Experience with and working knowledge of mass spectrometry
Familiarity with total organic carbon analysis
Working knowledge of IDEXX Colilert and Enterolert systems
Working knowledge of qPCR, sequencing, and molecular techniques
Working knowledge of California central coast water regulations and regulatory bodies
Experience using TRACKS for record keeping and/or analyses
Experience working in an aquarium, zoo or similar institution’s lab facility
Practical understanding of aquarium water systems, water quality monitoring requirements in aquariums, and typical aquarium laboratory practices
Practical research or applied research experience in biology, chemistry, water science, or related field
Ancillary Responsibilities
Performs routine sample collection and chemical/physical analyses
Assists with routine calibration, maintenance, and minor repairs of water quality sensors located in aquarium systems
Assists with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s public relations and educational activities, such as providing lab tours and/or information related to water quality and life support systems
Assists with activities and training at the Animal Research & Care Center (ARCC)
Assists with the monitoring and maintenance of AR-managed water systems