Research and Water Quality Laboratory Manager

Summary: The Research and Water Quality Laboratory Manager oversees the water quality laboratory, coordinates outreach educational programs, conducts field validation and research projects on aquatic weed control methods 

Essential Functions:

• Maintains the water quality laboratory in accordance with the protocols of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Health regulations
• Provides annual budget request to the Deputy Director for approval
• Coordinates the proper storage or required disposal of chemicals used in the laboratory with the Risk Manager
• Works closely with the Risk Manager to review all safety policies for the laboratory on an annual basis and update as necessary
• Responsible for ensuring that all equipment in the laboratory is maintained, calibrated, and repaired as needed
• Operates and performs independent bathymetry data collection and reviews field analysis results
• Manages the Pond Watch Program, working closely with Lee County volunteers/residents to resolve problems associated with water quality and aquatic weed control
• Develop and maintain an electronic database depository for Pond Watch and other projects
• Conducts meetings and presentations to the public and the scientific community on topics related to aquatic weed control and best management practices for aquatic systems
• Oversee, plan and implement water quality research projects pertaining to aquatic plant management
• Works closely with staff to conduct field validation research for controlling aquatic vegetation
• Produce publications on aquatic weed control and water quality management techniques for scientific journals, newsletters, and for educational materials
• Represents the District at professional and educational meetings (local, state, national) as needed
• Facilitate working relationships with local government agencies and/or private organizations to foster interagency partnerships/agreements
• Assist with the response to public, media and governmental agency inquiries as needed
• Communicate with the public in a professional and courteous manner and refer all inquiries outside area of expertise back to the appropriate person at the District
• Coordinate and collaborate with private and public research institutions in the development of new technologies for the control and management of aquatic weeds
• Follows all District safety policies and procedures and complies with local, state and federal regulations always, including ensuring all laboratory personnel are wearing all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Responsible for submitting all Time-Off Requests as soon as he/she knows they will be absent, late or leaving early
• Must have regular and predictable attendance
• Other duties and projects as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities: Responsible for the direct supervision, evaluation and performance management of a part-time student Laboratory Technician (paid intern) and the overview of service-learning students (unpaid interns) each semester

Qualifications:

• Master’s of Science degree with emphasis in biology, environmental sciences and chemistry from an accredited college or university required.
• Must have knowledge of water laboratory chemical practices and associated safety issues with 3 or more years of increasingly-responsible experience preferred
• Must be able to work varied hours including working on weekends as required
• Ability to operate a variety of boats and other small equipment
• Must have excellent computer skills including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and have the ability to operate internal web based, GIS, and mapping programs including entering data into phone Apps and databases
• Must be able to read and understand chemical label instructions in English
• Must have a valid Class E drivers license and a clean driving record
• Must pass the CORE and Aquatic exams within six months of hire and be able to maintain certification by earning appropriate CEUs (continuing education units)

Work Environment/Physical Requirements:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

Physical Requirements: Moderate physical activity is required on a regular basis including lifting, reaching for, pulling and carrying up to fifty pounds, reaching and pulling with arms, stooping and bending frequently, walking for long distances, sitting, standing, climbing over and around natural obstacles and climbing in and out of various vehicles and equipment.   Using hands and fingers to type, grip and operate a variety of hand tools and other equipment is required on a regular basis.  Excellent vision, both close and distance, is frequently required.

Work Environment: The work environment varies but includes outdoors, warehouses, office buildings, boats, vehicles, ponds, canals, rivers, creeks and open water. Regular exposure to all types of weather is required as the position is required to work outside, exposed to high temperatures and humidity, sun, rain, and wind.  Frequent local travel is required.  Noise level is usually low but occasional exposure to loud noise levels when around airboats.  Working with and around chemicals, which are stored, handled, applied/used and disposed of according to exact labeling instructions, is required frequently. Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, fuel, fumes, mud, and insects is required.