Bacteriologist I

Who We Are : The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.  Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition. Who We Are as an Employer : At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents. Description : The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is the state agency responsible for conserving the state's natural resources. DFG exercises responsibility over the Commonwealth's marine and freshwater fisheries, wildlife, plants, and natural communities, and provides outdoor recreation opportunities to the public. The Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) serves Massachusetts’ citizens by protecting, restoring, and enhancing fishery resources and their habitats while providing sustainable fisheries-related recreational and commercial opportunities. A cover letter and resume must be submitted as part of the application process and attached “as relevant” to the requisition. Job Opening : The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries seeks qualified applicants to serve as a Bacteriologist I for the Shellfish Program in the New Bedford Laboratory. The individual in this position supports the Shellfish Program performing biological, microbiological and chemical analyses at the Shellfish Laboratory in the Division of Marine Fisheries South Coast Field Station, New Bedford. Processes water, wastewater and shellfish meat samples to better quantify and delineate impacts of combined sewer overflow (CSO) discharges on surrounding Shellfish Growing Areas in Buzzards Bay. Assists in the day-to-day operation of the New Bedford Shellfish Lab using standard methods and approved standard operating procedures (SOP) while ensuring compliance with National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP) requirements. Assists the Shellfish Program with sample collections in the field as needed. DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES To support NSSP required shellfish growing area sanitation monitoring and in response to Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) discharges, performs bacteriological testing of shellfish, seawater, and wastewater at the Division of Marine Fisheries New Bedford shellfish laboratory. 1. Performs analysis of shellfish samples, water samples, wastewater samples, and related quality controls using Standard Methods and approved SOPs found in the laboratory’s QA manual. 2. Prepares laboratory materials such as culture media, buffers, bacteriological cultures and chemical reagents. 3. Assists the Shellfish Program with shellfish, water, and wastewater sample collections as needed. 4. Maintains laboratory equipment and performs periodic equipment calibrations and adjustments. 5. Performs routine tasks associated with a microbiology laboratory such as washing dishes and glassware, operating an autoclave and general laboratory upkeep. 6. Ensures bacteriological, chemical, and physical sampling schedules, testing methods and frequencies conform to laboratory SOPs, Standard Methods, NSSP and federal and state regulations as required. 7. Successfully performs annual laboratory proficiency testing. 8. Participates in various studies relating to the laboratory and the NSSP. 9. Available for regular weekend work as needed to assist in these tasks. 10. Maintain collaborative and harmonious working relationships with colleagues, demonstrating professionalism in words and actions. 11. Assist other Marine Fisheries projects conducting monitoring and research as time allows. QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE 1. Knowledge of bacteriological testing procedures, sterile technique and QA/QC practices. 2. An understanding of the operation of laboratory equipment (autoclaves, pH meters, pipettes etc.) 3. Knowledge of shellfish biology. 4. Ability to keep clear, concise and accurate records. 5. Excellent oral and written communication skills. 6. Ability to work flexible hours and days including weekends depending on tide schedule, significant rain events, and other contingencies. 7. Ability to work as part of a team and as well as independently. QUALIFICATIONS ACQUIRED ON THE JOB (List knowledge, skills, abilities) 1. Knowledge of the testing requirements of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. 2. Ability to perform duties according to laboratory SOPs. 3. Ability to perform laboratory tasks and sample analyses independently. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator’s Class D license or equivalent license from the state in which you reside. An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional or paraprofessional experience in bacteriology, biology or biochemistry work, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below. Substitutions: I. A Bachelor's or higher degree with a major in bacteriology, biology, chemistry or biochemistry may be substituted for the required experience.* *Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed. Special Requirements: None. Comprehensive Benefits When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. Job: * Science Organization: * Department of Fish And Game Title: Bacteriologist I Location: Massachusetts-New Bedford -706 S R Frch Blvd Requisition ID: 2600048S