Title

Reports to

Lab Technician (part-time)

Associate Curator

Position Summary:

The New York Botanical Garden seeks a part-time Lab Technician to analyze soils. The project will upgrade long-term monitoring the Thain Family Forest in alignment with regional standards to inform the intersection between forest carbon cycling, hydrology and soil health. The part-time Lab Technician will perform laboratory methods necessary to estimate soil carbon stocks (e.g. homogenization, subsampling, root processing, moisture content, dry mass) and metal concentrations in surface soils and litter (air drying, homogenization, subsampling). Working closely with NYBG Science and Horticulture, the Lab Technician will report to Brad Oberle, Associate Curator.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities:

• Follow and update standard operating procedures for soil sampling, measurement, subsampling, weather monitoring and data entry
• Set up, maintain and troubleshoot new laboratory equipment
• Measure basic forest characteristics, including tree species identity and size using standard forestry methods
• Monitor soil preperties in the field using equipment including infrared gas analyzer and weather station
• Collect soil and forest floor samples using augers and related field supplies
• Process soil samples in the laboratory using sieves, balances, drying ovens, muffle furnaces, mills and other laboratory equipment
• Organize, package and ship samples to analytical labs
• Develop and implement robust methods to determine root and stone density
• Enter, organize and quality check data using Microsoft Office, Google Drive and R software
• Participate in NYBG Science activities and outreach related to the project
• Communicate promptly and clearly
• Promote a safe, collaborative working environment

Qualifications:

• High school diploma
• Some undergraduate science coursework preferred
• Experience with field and lab methods for soil carbon measurement

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is required to, at minimum, stand; walk; sit; use hands; handle tools; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Work outdoors under a variety of weather conditions. Work under low, moderate or loud work conditions.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Baseline Work Schedule:

13 hours per week (maximum 25) during regular business hours Monday – Friday, 9 am - 6 pm with times and dates coordinated in advance with supervisor.

20 week appointment duration beginning December 16th 2024

Rate: $25/hour