Research Technologist II

Biosphere 2 at the University of Arizona is in search of a Research Technologist II. The successful candidate will have primary oversight for the Biogeochemistry laboratory on the Biosphere 2 campus. This includes designing modifying, and/or adapting unique one-of-a-kind systems in support of the research conducted at Biosphere 2. The candidate will manage and maintain the laboratory, prepare and analyze samples independently and operate at a highly independent level in determining, designing, and building scientific systems as well as repairing analytical equipment used in environmental soil and ground, surface, and sea water analysis.

Biosphere 2 advances our understanding of natural and human-made ecosystems through integrated research that drives the discovery and development of interventions that increase the resilience and sustainability of Earth systems and human quality of life. We advance research in our unique facilities, conduct interdisciplinary science education, and foster leadership initiatives focused on developing scalable solutions for our planet and beyond.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Oversight and management of the Biosphere 2 Biogeochemistry Laboratory, including planning and conducting laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments across multiple biomes such as the Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO), B2 Ocean, Tropical Rainforest, and Desert habitat. Responsibilities include sample collection, processing, and analysis of water and soil samples, as well as supervising undergraduate and graduate students who are working in the lab or tasked with processing samples for Biosphere 2 or related research projects.
• Confers with Biosphere 2 scientists and engineers to define and refine the appropriate procedures related to the collection of scientific data using complex lab equipment, computer networks and technologically advanced features.
• Provides technical and scientific expertise to the management of complex scientific equipment utilizing specific knowledge typically obtained through an advanced scientific degree or relevant work experience.
• Performing calibrations, regular maintenance and minor/moderate repairs on equipment and contacting appropriate party to perform major repairs and ensuring appropriate storage of samples and data management.
• Keeping the inventories and restocking supplies for the laboratory and maintaining laboratory safety protocols and waste-disposal procedures.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to operate and maintain analytical instrumentation used in environmental sciences.
• Basic wet chemistry skills.
• Knowledge of methods and procedures used in environmental sciences or ability to acquire them.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree in related field of science or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Previous experience operating and maintaining ion chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, and mass spectrometry instrumentation is preferred.