Performs a variety of routine technical scientific duties in laboratory and/or field.

This is the entry level of the class series. Incumbents in positions allocated to this class work under the direction of a biologist or higher level technician.

Performs routine and special chemical and biological tests; collects biological and chemical samples using acceptable field techniques and equipment including packaging, preservation, and transportation of samples; performs computations;

Prepares, adjusts and standardizes chemical reagents, micro-biological culture media and prepares chemical and biological apparatus for field and laboratory use;

Performs rough carpentry, cement work, site clearance, and other labor in helping to construct special fish traps, seining sites, research gear, and small field installations; operates and maintains boats, outboard motors, various types of sampling and processing gear, and light automotive equipment;

Locates shellfish experimental plot boundaries; patrols oyster reserve areas by boat; observes commercial harvesting of reserve oysters under contract;

Records and maintains accurate field and laboratory records including logs and biological and chemical data as it relates to the particular project; maintains logs pertinent to conditions of surveys;

Maintains chemical and biological laboratory and field equipment; maintains fresh and salt water aquaria; prepares chemical and biological specimens for further analysis by chemist or biologist;

Prepares and operates laboratory and field analytical equipment;

Performs other work as required.

Knowledge of: elementary biology and chemistry; care and operation of laboratory equipment; fundamental use of microscopes and other laboratory and field equipment utilized in the biological and chemical area.

Ability to: work in inclement weather; use carpentry hand tools; carry out oral and written instructions; prepare routine chemical and biological field and laboratory reports.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science.

Equivalent education/experience.

New class adopted December 1, 1967.
Revise class. Revises title (formerly Scientific Aide 1), adopted October 10, 1980.
Revise class. Revises definition, minimum qualifications, adds distinguishing characteristics; adopted September 14, 1990.
Revise class. Revises class code (formerly 53220); adopted May 10, 2007, effective July 1, 2007.