Environmental Aquatic Toxicology Lab in Fairfield, CA has a full-time, entry-level Lab Assistant position open for immediate hire. This is a career track position with associated one-year development plan to achieve the position of Scientist. Prior work or academic experience in a related field is preferred. Positive attitude and ability to get along with others is absolutely essential. Applicant must be able to work well both independently and with others. Overtime is a requirement of this position.

Job Description: 
The primary job duties of this position are to fulfill the daily support and assistance needs of the testing laboratory, including the performance of toxicity tests. This position includes, but is not necessarily limited to, the daily log-in of samples (water and sediment), shipping of sample kits to clients, performance of routine test solution analyses (i.e., measurement and recording of DO, pH, conductivity, alkalinity, hardness, etc.), preparation of synthetic waters and test solutions, preparation of sediment composite samples, routine aquatic animal husbandry, toxicity testing, determination of organism weights, and aquatic embryo development test scoring using a microscope. This position includes tasks related to the maintenance of a clean, safe, and unencumbered laboratory work environment, restocking of workstations, cleaning of glassware and facilities, general housekeeping responsibilities, repairing damaged laboratory items, and potential participation in preventative maintenance activities. This position also includes the pick-up and transport of samples, and thus requires the use of company vehicles and the maintenance of a clean driving record and valid California driver license. This position will require the Employee to adhere to the Firm’s Quality Manual. Should opportunity or responsibilities allow, and at the discretion of the Firm’s Directors, Employee also may be required to perform tasks beyond those described above. Candidate must be able to work the specified shift. All Laboratory Assistants work either a Sunday-Thursday shift or Tuesday-Saturday shift. Typical workday starts at 8 am, although employee may at times be asked to come in early or late depending on lab needs (e.g., sample pick-up in late afternoon). Overtime is required of all employees in order to complete lab tasks for the day. Employee may at times be asked to work on one of their weekend days depending on lab needs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 
This position requires a valid California Driver’s License, a good driving record, and the ability to drive company vehicles, including cargo vans and full-sized pick-up trucks. Laboratory knowledge, skills and experience are highly desirable, but not required. College coursework in biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences, including laboratory courses, is highly desirable, but not required. Candidate must be able to carefully follow written and verbal instructions. This position will involve lifting heavy objects, standing for several hours at a time, and working in various temperature-controlled rooms, ranging from 39-80ºF.

Benefits (Full-Time Employees): 
Medical insurance (company pays full premium and contributes $2000/year into health savings account), vision and dental insurance are provided by employer. 401K with 4% employer match (eligible after 1 year of employment, 1000 hours worked, and age 21 or older). Life insurance is provided. 20 paid days off accrued per year.

What we offer:

• Job Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt

• Salary: $19-$20.50 per hour

To all full-time team members, we offer:

• Company paid health, dental, and vision insurance

• Company funded health savings account ($2,000/year)

• Company paid life insurance

• Progressive paid time-off policy (20 days per year)

• 401(k) with 4% employer match