Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
Summary: The CVAL and Biology Research Technician works in the Calibration, Validation, and Audit Laboratory (CVAL). The CVAL audit lab is responsible for the auditing of external analytical laboratories for soil, vegetation and invertebrate samples analysis. Reporting to the Manager of Cal/Val Lab, the CVAL and Biology Research Technician will provide support in developing, process testing, and maintaining of the CVAL audit laboratory. In addition, the Technician will work with the CVAL team to perform environmental sensor calibrations and validations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Assist in the maintenance and operation of the CVAL laboratory, including general upkeep and organization, and maintenance of stock of regularly used materials and supplies • Prepare and process soil, vegetation and invertebrate samples for audit activities of external laboratories • Manage the storage and shipping of CVAL test audit samples • Receive and sort external analytical laboratory data, and perform initial QA/QC on data from external laboratories • Execute procedures to complete calibration and validation on environmental sensor assemblies • Perform calibration activities on environmental sensors using manual and/or automated calibration fixtures • Prepare reports and materials to assist the CVAL team in presenting CVAL designs and audit results to external groups Education: • Bachelors Degree in Biology, or Ecology, or related field of study Required Experience: • 2 years of research and/or laboratory sample processing experience • Specific lab experience with soils, invertebrates, or plants Skills and Abilities: • Attention to detail and accuracy • Demonstrated strong organizational and multitasking skills • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Able to travel Physical Abilities: • Able to lift at least 40 pounds. • Able to work outdoors in all types of weather, environmental conditions and remote locations. • Able to climb tall towers and work at elevations. Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
