Title- Molecular Genetics Laboratory Technician 

Classification- Scientific Technician 3 (ST3)

Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent

WDFW Program- Fish Program – Molecular Genetics Laboratory
 Duty Station- Olympia, Washington – Thurston County

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

Photo Caption Laboratory Technician preparing DNA libraries for genotyping – Photo credit: WDFW

This position works with Biologists and other Scientific Technicians under the supervision of the Molecular Genetics Laboratory Supervisor to participate in the technical activities and operations of the laboratory on a variety of critical projects aimed at improving sustainable management of fish and wildlife resources.

What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Molecular Genetics Laboratory Technician:

• Independently conducts complex molecular laboratory investigations and experiments as part of the agency’s genetic monitoring and research of fish and wildlife trust resources. 
• Cuts/prepares tissue for DNA extractions and extracts DNA from multiple sample types (including environmental DNA water and fecal samples).
• Conducts polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequencing, GT-Seq (Genotyping-in-Thousands by sequencing), quantitative PCR (qPCR), DNA metabarcoding, and RAD-Seq (restriction site associated DNA sequencing). 
• Operates and maintains specialized laboratory equipment, including capillary electrophoresis systems, integrated fluidic circuits, thermal cyclers, next-generation sequencing instruments, and liquid handling robots. 
• Uses specialized computer programs and software to process/interpret raw data and evaluate results. 
• Consults with project leads to implement and optimize laboratory procedures.
• Conducts quality assurance and control procedures to ensure data integrity.
• Maintains sample collections using specialized databases.
• Prepares standard laboratory solutions, buffers, and reagents.

Working Conditions: 

Work Setting, including hazards: May involve work in inclement/hazardous conditions including handling toxic/reactive chemicals and sharps; primarily laboratory work with use of personal protective equipment; employee required to lift equipment up to 50 lbs.

Schedule: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.

Travel Requirements: May travel regionally and occasionally statewide.

Tools and Equipment: Various types of laboratory equipment (capillary electrophoresis, integrated fluidic circuit, next-generation sequencing instruments, liquid handling robots), computerized laboratory instrumentation (pipettes, centrifuges, thermal cyclers), and tools.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications: 

Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science, and Four (4) years of experience as a Scientific Technician. 

Or 

Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science and Four (4) years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a health or safety professional, biologist, chemist, or zoologist.

Note: College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience, provided the course work includes at least six semester or nine quarter hours of natural or environmental science classes.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:

• Experience providing technical expertise and training in a genetics laboratory and maintaining cooperative working relationships with others. 

• Competencies in laboratory data collection and summarization, evaluation and interpretation of test results, operation of complex, computer-controlled instruments, teamwork and collaboration on research projects, and multitasking on diverse projects.

Knowledge of:

• Laboratory principles, practices, and techniques such as those used in molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, chemistry, and organic chemistry. 
• Laboratory equipment maintenance, operation, and calibration.
• Laboratory supplies and reagents.
• Data preparation and quality control.
• Computer interfaces for operation and setup of laboratory equipment. 

Your application should include the following:

• A completed online application.
• An up-to-date resume (chronological preferred) showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
• A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
• At least three professional references with current contact information.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:

In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.

Important Note: 

All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link:  https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

Union – WAFWP:

This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.

Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice: 

Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and spouses of active-duty military personnel who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following: 

• Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at RecruitmentTeam@dfw.wa.gov.  
• Veterans only – Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
  • Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
• Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
• Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications.  Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully.  All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer.  We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity.  Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.   

Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.

Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com. 

Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to diana.humes@dfw.wa.gov and reference the job number in the subject line.

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