Marine Genetics Technician: Field & Lab Support

Ocean Associates, Inc.; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Ocean Associates, Inc. is seeking a candidate to support laboratory and field work for marine mammal and turtle genetics projects. You will process tissue samples, perform DNA extraction and sequencing, manage data, and assist with field responses and editorial tasks.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and hands-on molecular lab experience, with strong communication and teamwork skills. Location is La Jolla, CA, with travel as needed and a competitive hourly wage.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in fisheries, oceanography, natural sciences, or related fields, plus several years of related experience.
• Molecular lab experience focused on genetic research including DNA extraction, quantification, PCR, and sequencing.
• Experience with relational databases, data entry, and querying.
• Experience curating tissue and DNA samples.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.

Responsibilities

• Process tissue samples for marine turtle and marine mammal genetics projects, including DNA extraction, quantification, and sequencing.
• Provide core molecular lab support: reagents prep, stocking, equipment maintenance.
• Participate in site meetings to exchange information and stay informed.
• Assist in fieldwork, stranding response, and necropsy sessions as needed.
• Provide editorial and SOP writing services related to projects.
• Scan historical data, organize digital files, and summarize lab results into databases.

Skills

Molecular lab work

DNA extraction

PCR sequencing

Genotyping

Relational databases

Tissue/DNA handling

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in related field

Tools

Qubit fluorometer

Agilent BioAnalyzer

BioRAD ddPCR

3730 DNA Analyzer

Illumina MiSeq

Oxford Nanopore sequencer

Job description

Ocean Associates, Inc. is seeking a candidate to support laboratory and field work for marine mammal and turtle genetics projects. You will process tissue samples, perform DNA extraction and sequencing, manage data, and assist with field responses and editorial tasks.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and hands-on molecular lab experience, with strong communication and teamwork skills. Location is La Jolla, CA, with travel as needed and a competitive hourly wage.