Bioassay Technologist

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Apply By: Friday, November 27, 2026 11:59 pm EST

Bioassay Technologist

Job ID:

250788

Posting status:

Open

Organization:

Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks

Division:

Environmental Sciences and Standards Division, Laboratory Services Branch

City:

Etobicoke

Position(s) language:

English

Job term:

1 Temporary (up to 12 months, with possibility of extension)

Job code:

16053 - Technologist 2, Chemical Lab

Salary:

$1,286.92 - $1,518.87 Per week*
*Indicates the salary listed as per the OPSEU Collective Agreement.

Apply now

Accessibility support

Put your bioassay expertise to work in a collaborative lab where science, quality, and environmental impact come together!

Do you have a strong background in environmental bioassay and biology, with practical experience in conducting a variety of semi-complex to complex tests of biological compounds? Do you enjoy working in a team environment? If this sounds like you, please consider this exciting opportunity!

About the job

Under the general supervision of the section manager, in an analytical laboratory performing moderately complex to complex analysis of biological compounds in environmental samples, you will:

• apply approved methods to prepare microbiological media and reagents, calibration standards, and quality control solutions
• prepare environmental samples for analysis and perform the analysis using written approved methods
• apply approved methods to conduct biological analysis on environmental samples
• carry out equipment standardization and other quality control functions such as calibration, standardization, recovery checks and control charting
• monitor the operating equipment (e.g. autoclaves, dishwashers, pH meters) and conditions, troubleshoot and make appropriate adjustments and repairs)
• use of standard software such as (word processing, spreadsheet etc.) to list and organize the data, to carry out calculations, and to report the results in support of Ministry programs

The lab operates 7 days/week and the position will be required to work occasional weekend shifts.

This position also performs work on fish tissues and fish processing and the position will require the handling of fish, and processing of dead fish and other test methods across the section such as Algae identification, and support testing methods in aquatic toxicology and microbiology as needed.

What you bring to the team

Mandatory requirements

• You have post-secondary education (e.g. college or university) in Science.

Technical expertise:

• You have knowledge of the scientific principles and practices of analytical, environmental bioassay and biology.
• You have practical experience with established laboratory test protocols, procedures and methods, including basic biology and chemistry techniques, sample preparation and instrumental analysis techniques.
• You have practical experience with the operation and capabilities of manual and automated laboratory equipment to perform biological and chemical tests and basic troubleshooting of procedures and equipment.
• You have knowledge and experience with Laboratory Information Management System and Windows based software, such as word processing and spreadsheets.

Legislative knowledge:

• You have knowledge of applicable occupational health and safety legislation and current practices, roles and responsibilities for an environmental molecular and microbiology laboratory such as universal precautions, bio-safety techniques, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
• You have knowledge of quality assurance practices and ISO 17025 standards.
• You have knowledge of legislation relating to safe drinking water.

Analytical skills:

• You are able to assess and resolve unusual problems arising out of testing and data interpretation.
• You are able to confirm results when comparing expected versus actual output including implications.
• You can select or develop standard or alternative testing procedures prior to formal documentation and control, to resolve problems.

Communication and interpersonal skills:

• You have oral and written communication skills to report complex, detailed test findings, to discuss interdependent testing procedures and to respond to requests for tests.
• You have interpersonal skills to work as a member of a team and to participate in intra-laboratory activities such as quality initiatives.

Don't meet every qualification?

If you are excited about this position and meet most, but not all, of the listed qualifications, please still consider applying. We recognize that no one person might have every qualification in this job ad, and you just might be the right candidate!

How we support diversity, inclusion and accessibility

We are building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We encourage everyone interested in working with us to apply, including people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black and racialized individuals, as well as people from all ethnicities, cultures, sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions.

Our hiring process is accessible, consistent with Ontario's Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. We are working to prevent and remove barriers in our hiring processes and can offer accommodation to address specific needs related to Code-protected grounds such as disability, family status and religion. For more information about accommodation during the hiring process please contact us.

Learn more about the work the OPS is doing to create an inclusive, anti-racist, accessible and diverse workplace:

• diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives
• accessibility
• Anti-Racism Policy

What we offer

This position reports to Cassandra Lofranco, Manager of Biological Analysis, who leads with a people-centred, science-driven approach. Cassandra believes that strong results come from supporting, valuing, and developing people, while maintaining high standards for quality, precision, and accountability. She values team members who take ownership of their work, approach their tasks with care and focus, and understand the importance of producing accurate, defensible data. Her leadership style emphasizes clear expectations, open communication, coaching, and a respectful, inclusive workplace where people are supported to do rigorous work they can take pride in.

The Ontario Public Service (OPS) is committed to being an employer of first choice, creating a positive and inclusive work environment.

We offer:
• a defined benefit pension plan
• maternity and parental leave top-up benefits which includes adoptive parents
• comprehensive health plan
• life and disability insurance
• flexible work arrangements
• collegial and professional work culture
• career growth and development opportunities across multiple business areas
• on-the-job training to support your success in the role

Additional information:

Apply by:

Friday, November 27, 2026 11:59 pm EST

Position details:

• 1 English Temporary, duration up to 12 months, 125 Resources Rd, Etobicoke, Toronto Region

Compensation group:

Ontario Public Service Employees Union

Work hours:

Schedule 3.7

Category:

Science

Posted on:

Friday, November 6, 2026

How to apply:

1. You must apply online.
2. Your cover letter and resume combined should not exceed five (5) pages. For tips and tools on how to write a concise cover letter and resume, review the Writing a Cover Letter and Resume: Tips, Tools and Resources.
3. Customize your cover letter and resume to the qualifications listed on the job ad. Using concrete examples, you must show how you demonstrated the requirements for this job. We rely on the information you provide to us.
4. Read the job description to make sure you understand this job.
5. OPS employees are required to quote their WIN EMPLOYEE ID number when applying.
6. If you require a disability related accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please Contact Us to provide your contact information. Recruitment services team will contact you within 48 hours.

Language requirements and assessment:
All external Ontario Public Service (OPS) job ads are posted in English and French. Check the "position(s) language" section at the top of each job ad for the language requirements. For all roles, candidates are assessed in English, the business language of the OPS. If the position is bilingual (English/French), you'll also need to pass a French-language proficiency test.

Exigences en matière de langue et évaluation:
Toutes les offres d'emploi externes de la fonction publique de l'Ontario (FPO) sont affichées en français et en anglais. Consultez la section « Langue du ou des postes » en haut de chaque offre d'emploi pour connaître les exigences linguistiques. Pour tous les postes, les candidats sont évalués en anglais, la langue d'affaires de la FPO. Si le poste est bilingue (anglais/français), vous devrez également passer un test de compétences linguistiques en français.

Strengthening Ontario, together