"Laboratory and Research Technician"

Job Description

This position will assist the Furst Lab at the Occoquan Watershed Monitoring Lab (OWML) in GIS modeling, laboratory, field work related to a research project on water contamination from septic systems. A successful candidate will have prior experience modeling soil topographic information and pluvial flooding conditions in GIS, collecting PFAS samples, and performing water quality analyses. Primary duties include: Assisting with field work to collect PFAS water and sediment samples following standard protocols; performing basic water quality analyses in the field and laboratory, including nutrients, TSS, total organic matter and fluorescence spectroscopy; assisting with PFAS and PPCP sample preparation, extraction and LC-MS/MS analysis; following proper sanitation procedures and environmental health and safety procedures; assisting with data analysis in Insight, Excel and Python; preparing maps in ArcGIS and performing GIS analyses on the collected data; assisting researchers with the preparation of reports and manuscripts; attend and present at project team meetings and research group meetings. This is an off-campus position at the Occoquan Watershed Monitoring Lab, located in Manassas, Virginia.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with ArcGIS Pro and developing models for soil topographic information and pluvial flooding conditions.
• Prior experience with environmental field work.
• Experience in the collection of PFAS water and sediment samples following proper protocol without introduction of contamination.
• Knowledge of stream water quality and standard methods for water quality analysis.
• Experience using Hach methods and instrumentation for nutrient analysis.
• Experience with Horiba Aqualog fluorescence spectrophotometer and data processing for fluorescence excitation and emissions spectra (FEEMs).
• Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and writing skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Python.
• Must have a vehicle and ability to travel and hike uneven terrain and carry up to 20 pounds as needed.
• Ability to work independently.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, or related field.
• Knowledge of Fairfax County hydrogeology.

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Hours per week

40

Review Date

October 2, 2025

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.