Bioassay Technologist

Do you have a strong background in environmental bioassay and biology, with practical experience in conducting a variety of semi-complex to complex tests of biological compounds? Do you enjoy working in a team environment? If this sounds like you, please consider this exciting opportunity

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.

We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code.

Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?Under the general supervision of the section manager, in an analytical laboratory performing moderately complex to complex analysis of biological compounds in environmental samples, you will:

• apply approved methods to prepare microbiological media and reagents, calibration standards, and quality control solutions
• prepare environmental samples for analysis and perform the analysis using written approved methods
• apply approved methods to conduct biological analysis on environmental samples
• carry out equipment standardization and other quality control functions such as calibration, standardization, recovery checks and control charting
• monitor the operating equipment (e.g. autoclaves, dishwashers, pH meters) and conditions, troubleshoot and make appropriate adjustments and repairs)
• use of standard software such as (word processing, spreadsheet etc.) to list and organize the data, to carry out calculations, and to report the results in support of Ministry programs

The lab operates 7 days/week and the position will be required to work occasional weekend shifts.

This position also performs work on fish tissues and fish processing and the position will require the handling of fish, and processing of dead fish and other test methods across the section such as Algae identification, and support testing methods in aquatic toxicology and microbiology as needed.

How do I qualify?Mandatory

• You have post-secondary education (e.g. college or university) in Science.

Technical expertise:

• You have knowledge of the scientific principles and practices of analytical, environmental bioassay and biology.
• You have practical experience with established laboratory test protocols, procedures and methods, including basic biology and chemistry techniques, sample preparation and instrumental analysis techniques.
• You have practical experience with the operation and capabilities of manual and automated laboratory equipment to perform biological and chemical tests and basic troubleshooting of procedures and equipment.
• You have knowledge and experience with Laboratory Information Management System and Windows based software, such as word processing and spreadsheets.

Legislative knowledge:

• You have knowledge of applicable occupational health and safety legislation and current practices, roles and responsibilities for an environmental molecular and microbiology laboratory such as universal precautions, bio-safety techniques, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
• You have knowledge of quality assurance practices and ISO 17025 standards.
• You have knowledge of legislation relating to safe drinking water.

Analytical skills:

• You are able to assess and resolve unusual problems arising out of testing and data interpretation.
• You are able to confirm results when comparing expected versus actual output including implications.
• You can select or develop standard or alternative testing procedures prior to formal documentation and control, to resolve problems.

Communication and interpersonal skills:

• You have oral and written communication skills to report complex, detailed test findings, to discuss interdependent testing procedures and to respond to requests for tests.
• You have interpersonal skills to work as a member of a team and to participate in intra-laboratory activities such as quality initiatives.

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