Conservation Technician jobs in Johnstown, PA

POSITION DESCRIPTION

TITLE: Research Technician (Summer Intern)

LINE OF BUSINESS/DIVISION: Conservation Services/Freshwater Institute

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO: Environmental Research Engineer

NUMBER OF POSITIONS REPORTING TO THIS POSITION: None

LOCATION: Shepherdstown, WV

POSITION SUMMARY

The Research Technician (Summer Intern) will assist with pilot-scale anaerobic digestion experiments. This is a part-time (up to 20 hours/week) temporary internship from approximately June 1, 2024, through August 15, 2024.

RESPONSIBLITIES & SCOPE

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Load, operate, and collect data from a pilot-scale anaerobic digester. Training will be provided for the safe operation of the system.
• Collect samples for water quality testing.
• Assist Water and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory staff with the testing of sludge samples (including, but not limited to, total and volatile solids, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total ammonia nitrogen, chemical oxygen demand, and pH).
• Extract and record data in Microsoft Excel or similar software.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently pursuing a diploma or Bachelors degree in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Environmental Science, Waste Management, or a related discipline.
• Prior experience in a laboratory setting, such as that found in college-level science courses.
• Ability to work independently, while maintaining high standards of quality required for research and manuscript publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Interest in waste treatment and waste conversion technologies.
• Sensitivity to animal welfare issues.
• Proficiency with Office 365 computer applications.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Basic understanding of anaerobic digestion technology.
• Working knowledge and understanding of pumps, mixers, and basic plumbing.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires standing for long periods of time and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds to shoulder height. The Research Technician will work in wet, hot, and/or humid conditions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• 50% of work is performed around water or in wet, hot, and/or humid conditions.
• Estimated travel 0%.

COMPENSATION

The salary range for this position is $17.00 to $20.00/hour, based on experience. Please note: Salary range provided is an estimate and will be evaluated on an individual basis, taking into consideration the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, experience, and education. The final salary offer will be determined accordingly.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.

***Please submit cover letter and resume with application***

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Frequently cited statistics show that women and people from underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they think they meet 100% of the criteria. If you meet many but not all the criteria and feel you may be a good fit for the role, The Conservation Fund encourages you to apply.

The Conservation Fund, a nonprofit corporation, is an Equal Opportunity Employer that fully and actively supports equal access for all people regardless of Race, Color, Religion, Gender, Age, National Origin, Veteran Status, Disability, Genetic Information or Testing, Family and Medical Leave status, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression. The Fund prohibits retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint, or otherwise oppose discrimination.

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