Biologist

The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) was established in 1972 to convey and treat wastewater in Cleveland and surrounding communities. As a leader in wastewater management, the NEORSD has an operating budget of over $100 million dollars, a capital budget of over $200 million dollars, and an employee population of more than 600 .

The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District is currently searching for a Biologist to perform Whole Effluent Toxicity (WET) testing and identify and quantify microorganisms using conventional and molecular methods such as Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) or other rapid assessment methods. The Biologist must possess skills and knowledge in genotypic and phenotypic identification, the ability to isolate and maintain cultures of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, perform research on new methods, assist with research on toxicity identification and evaluation as required by the Distict’s NPDES permits, maintain equipment and generate detailed reports. The Biologist provides instructions and/or leads Wastewater Analysts in laboratory practices, test procedures and obtaining cultures; may direct the work of others or projects assigned; and performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required .

The successful candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (preferably with a Major in either Microbiology or Molecular Biology) and three (3) years of progressive laboratory experience with molecular biology and microbiology in a clinical, industrial or research setting. Candidates must have knowledge of microbiology principles, and be keenly familiar with general laboratory procedures, laboratory equipment and instruments, and quality assurance theories and principles. Candidates must be familiar with aseptic techniques and culturing organisms of bacteria, fish or other organisms. Candidates should have knowledge of the principles underlying DNA, RNA, and protein analysis, all forms of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and knowledge of statistical methods to evaluate data for WET tests.

The successful candidate must have exceptional attention to detail, prioritization skills, the ability to complete tasks efficiently, and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships . Effective oral and written communication and analytical skills are required, as well as the ability to keep detailed records and write reports summarizing research work. Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel or similar software packages. Candidates must have the ability to perform routine analyses quickly and accurately while using various laboratory equipment including analytical balances, spectrophotometers, automated analyzers and microscopes. Possession of a valid Class III State of Ohio Wastewater Analyst Certificate is preferred. A valid driver’s license with a driving record in accordance with the District’s acceptable policies and procedures is required.

The Lab is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week; therefore, all employees are required to work a rotational schedule, including off shift and weekend hours. Candidates must have the ability to lift and move carboys of sterile water weighing up to 66.5 pounds.

Applications and/or resumes must be received by close of business Friday, February 17, 2012.

Resumes may be emailed to (Attn: Biologist - Job No. ).   Employment applications can be downloaded from or obtained from The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, 3900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115.

Salary Range: $46,003 - $57,504 annually.

The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE and an organization that embraces and celebrates Diversity

Website: