Job Description
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS):
WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world’s premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean. We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence. Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.
POSITION OBJECTIVE: In support of various New York Aquarium animal and exhibit programs, the Water Quality Lab Technician performs a wide variety of analytical tests on water samples, including the adjustment of water parameters through chemical, biological, or physical means.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Under the direction and supervision of the Water Quality Lab Supervisor, Hospital Manager, Department Head, and/or attending Veterinarian, maintain and operate the Water Quality Lab and associated field equipment at the WCS New York Aquarium in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
- Perform a wide variety of chemical, biological, and physical analyses of water samples with the goal of producing high quality, valid data in a cost effective and safe manner. Some analytical test methods will require manual techniques, while others will employ automation.
- Assist in the proper collection, preservation, and transport of samples while maintaining sample integrity.
- Adhere to approved protocols, Standard Operating Procedures, and the Quality Assurance and Chemical Hygiene Plans.
- Use a computer or other digital device to record, verify, and distribute analytical data to all stakeholders in a timely manner. Directly notify Aquatic Health Managers of emergency and/or urgent water quality issues.
- Maintain appropriate water quality parameters of exhibits, quarantine systems, and holding tanks by manual chemical additions or using automated equipment. Must be comfortable working with various types of pumps, controllers, and mixers -to maintain water quality.
- Operate, troubleshoot, and perform maintenance on complex analytical lab equipment.
- Use data to make corrective actions to support the health of our animal collections and their life support systems.
- Participate in the Laboratory Training Program by providing training to other staff, interns, and volunteers on use of lab equipment, sample collection, chemical additions to aquatic enclosures, and QA/QC practices.
- Maintain lab facility and equipment through established housekeeping, safety, and testing protocols.
- Follow the proper personal and facility safety protocols established in OSHA’s Laboratory Standard and FDNY’s Certificate of Fitness regulations, using appropriate PPE, engineering controls, chemical storage and handling practices, along with safe and appropriate collection, record-keeping, transport, and storage of hazardous waste.
- Understand and use proper chemical spill prevention and cleanup procedures when appropriate, and participate in the Spill Prevention Training Drills when being conducted.
- Use appropriate PPE and/or engineering controls when working in OSHA designated areas (including noisy environments), when working with hazardous materials, and at any other time when appropriate.
- Recommend improvements in laboratory operations and report safety issues where noted to the Water Quality Lab Supervisor. Attend and participate in Aquatic Health and Water Quality team meetings.
- Assist Hospital staff with animal health emergencies or medical procedures when requested.
- When needed, assist as a water quality technician at other WCS zoological parks (Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Bronx Zoo).
- Actively support, advance, and uphold the Society’s policies regarding Ethics, Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Qualification Requirements
SKILLS/CHARACTERISTICS:
- Ability to work in a complex healthcare environment with animals of diverse taxa, heavy machinery, and while collaborating with various departments and specialists.
- Ability to provide daily oversight of volunteers and student interns.
- Must be able to read, write and communicate effectively in English.
- Ability to use email and internet. Some familiarity with Microsoft 365 software (particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook) is necessary. Some knowledge of computer databases is desirable. Possesses knowledge of, or ability to learn and use Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS) software to record and archive data, review trends, and retrieve Aquarium-based information.
- Ability to work flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, non-traditional hours, and overtime.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The position requires work in all weather conditions. Tasks require manual dexterity and ability to
safely use and operate chemical metering equipment (e.g. solenoid diaphragm, peristaltic, and
centrifugal pumps that meter out chemicals like sodium hypochlorite, soda ash, and lanthanum
chloride, etc.) Some tasks require climbing, kneeling, bending, navigating uneven terrain, and
lifting up to 50 pounds. Ability to swim (basic skills).
WCS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value. EOE/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled