Science Lab Technician, Physical Sciences

Responsible for all phases of laboratory preparations including preparing and organizing equipment, materials and supplies for the Physical Sciences laboratories. Prepares laboratory materials, supplies, and equipment in advance of need and restocks and supports the science laboratory courses as directed. Tracks inventory and reports low stock well in advance of need. Adheres to all laboratory safety regulations and protocols.

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Four years of experience in Physical Science or (15) credit hours of college level course work in science with an emphasis on chemistry and physical science courses.
• Associate of Science degree in Physical Sciences preferred.
• Previous training in Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) is desired.

Criteria

CRITERIA: The following criteria, which are not the sole criteria used in the final hiring decision, will be used to review the applications of those persons who meet the stated minimum qualifications and to select those qualified applicants who will be interviewed. Other information and observations made during the interview process may be considered in the selection process. A Resume/CV and cover letter are required with the application. Please ensure that your documents address the criteria listed below for this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Prepares, organizes and sets up laboratory materials, supplies and equipment in accordance with the laboratory schedule and syllabi.
• Communicates regularly with the supervisor, staff, and instructors to ensure laboratory experiments are completely prepared in advance and proceed according to the syllabus.
• Prepares course status reports and other documents as requested by supervisor.
• Assists with updating and maintaining the inventory of laboratory chemicals, equipment and supplies in the department inventory database.
• Prepares reagents, stains, chemicals, standards, etc., in advance in accordance with the protocols in the laboratory preparation manuals.
• Operates laboratory equipment: analytical balances, GCs, computers, etc. according to the protocols in the operation manuals.
• Organizes and restocks the science laboratories prior to each class session.
• Removes and re-shelves completed experiments in a timely manner.
• Participates in professional development activities and in departmental and/or extension center meetings.
• Disposes of all chemical and hazardous waste properly and follows all laboratory safety protocols.
• Assists with the training and development of work assignments for Federal Work Study students, research students, and student volunteers.
• Observes the College’s policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Proven interpersonal, communication (oral and written), and customer service skills.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work harmoniously and effectively with students, faculty, staff, and administrators
• Demonstrates proper laboratory safety knowledge and techniques and ensures that good laboratory practices are being followed.
• Knowledge of chemical and physical hazards and their control.
• Ability to operate a computer, using various software packages.
• Ability to safely operate scientific equipment; including troubleshooting, calibration and/or repair of scientific equipment when able.
• Knowledge of solution mechanics.

Job Requirements

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must have the use of sensory skills in order to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public through the use of the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle or feel objects and controls. Physical capability to effectively use and operate various items of office related equipment, such as, but not limited to a, personal computer, calculator, copier, and fax machine. Must be able to lift, bend, and stoop. No significant climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written standard English.
• As required by the 1986 Immigration Act, be prepared to present acceptable documentation showing your identity and that you are a U.S. citizen or an alien who is authorized to work.
• A background investigation will be conducted prior to the offer of employment. A signed authorization for the release of personal information will be required if selected for an interview.

ACCOMMODATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential job duty. Prince George’s Community College provides reasonable accommodations when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause undue hardship. Accommodation determinations are made on a case-by-case basis. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Equity, Culture, and Talent (ECT) department.

Is Background Check Required?

Yes

Is the incumbent responsible for working with minor children or directly engaging with minor children on campus?

No