Trace Metal Chemistry Analytical Support Intern

Overview

This position is budgeted for $19.67 per hour and is non-negotiable.

The purpose of this task order is to obtain analytical and technical support services from undergraduate students in support of scientific research and development projects at the Naval Information Warfare Center, Pacific. Chemistry analysis support is needed of effluent and receiving water samples collected from the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS). The purpose of this task is to 1) provide laboratory support chemistry testing and analysis of water and sediment samples collected as part of the environmental monitoring programs following appropriate EPA guidance, 2) to assist in the development of novel technologies and methodologies to improve the environmental monitoring at each site, 3) to perform appropriate statistical analyses to interpret the data, and 4) to produce reports to sponsors and relevant end users to summarize findings, interpret results, and follow required laboratory Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures.

This work will support a PSNS project named Environmental Investment (ENVVEST). The project encompass a variety of tasking, including managing installation involvement in regional monitoring programs (e.g. mussel watch, etc.), performing ambient and stormwater monitoring to better understand impacts of discharges from installations, assist installations in permit renewal processes, and incorporating NIWC developed/demonstrated technologies and methodologies to improve environmental monitoring at these sites. These technologies/methodologies include passive samplers, in-situ toxicity testing devices, and pulsed toxicity exposure testing. In combination, these improved technologies and methodologies more accurately characterize the impact of industrial discharges on the ambient environment. This work ensures the Navy meets its environmental stewardship goals and requirements, while mitigating impacts to the warfighter.

Responsibilities

The student contractor shall provide analytical and technical support in the following areas, as specified under individual task orders, to the work sponsor:

• Mobilizing and preparing equipment for upcoming field and laboratory testing
• Perform sample preparation, digestions, extractions, and running samples on the LiquidChromotography/Mass Spectrometer (LC/MS) to analyze for target contaminants(Polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs], Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs], Per- andpolyfluoroalkyl substances [PFAS]) using chemistry knowledge and applicable documents insection 2.4-2.6.
• Perform data processing and analysis using Xcalibur, Chromeleon, and compound discoverer software package
•  Assistance in processing samples and data collected
• Maintain clean lab space and perform sample preparation and analysis utilizing Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) to measure trace metals in sediments, freshwater, and seawater. Additionally, assist in the sample preparation, maintenance, and analysis for total and methyl mercury.
• Performing data analysis using Microsoft Excel and appropriate statistical software.
• Maintaining laboratory facilities (e.g. washing glassware, calibration and maintenance of water quality meters and seawater system)
• Conducting relevant literature searches pertaining to the studies and participating in report preparation.

Qualifications

Undergraduate Student 3: Must have course work in the discipline requested on the task order Statement of Work. The student must be at the Senior level and have experience in 100% of the task requirements and be able to accomplish 90% of the work independently.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Area of Study: Majoring in Marine Biology, Biology, Engineering, Environmental Science and/or Chemistry

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience using chemistry analytical instruments, especially ICP-MS and LC-MS/MS
• Experience preparing chemistry analytical samples in various matrices (water, sediment, tissue)
• Coursework in marine biology, statistics, chemistry, environmental science, electrical engineering and/or computer engineering
• Expertise with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and common statistical software
• Interest and/or experience with designing environmental sampling equipment
• Desire person with strong work ethic, detail oriented, and good communication skills
• Students are available to work 20 hours per week preferred

ADDITIONAL APPLICANT INFORMATION:

• This position will require the employee to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance
• Due to the regulations established by the Department of Defense, only US Citizens may qualify
• This is a student position and is limited to working 20 hours per week
• This position will remain open until filled
• Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law.  
• Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support. 
• SDSU Research Foundation complies with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), and other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws including grant or contract terms and conditions related to funded program activities. Further the SDSU Research Foundation maintains a Nondiscrimination Policy that prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.  
• SDSU Research Foundation makes all employment decisions including, but not limited to, applicant screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations on the basis of merit.