Position Introduction: The School of Biological Sciences is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Senior Laboratory Technician to coordinate the operations of the Media Preparation Center (MPC) and undergraduate biology teaching laboratories. This position is responsible for preparing instructional laboratory media and materials, coordinating laboratory operations, maintaining inventories, overseeing laboratory readiness, supporting safety compliance activities, supervising student employees, and assisting with chemical and biological waste handling in accordance with university safety procedures.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: - Coordinates daily operations of the Media Preparation Center and supports multiple undergraduate biology teaching laboratories.
- Prepares and oversees preparation of media, dyes, reagents, and laboratory materials using established laboratory procedures.
- Develops and maintains laboratory preparation schedules to support instructional laboratory courses.
- Operates, calibrates, maintains, and troubleshoots laboratory equipment and instruments associated with media preparation and laboratory operations.
- Tracks, organizes, prioritizes, and fulfills laboratory media and supply requests for instructional laboratory courses.
- Collects, sterilizes, processes, and coordinates disposal of contaminated media, biological waste, and chemical waste in accordance with safety protocols.
- Serves as departmental liaison with Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) regarding laboratory compliance and waste disposal requirements.
- Maintains laboratory chemical inventories, safety inventories, stock supplies, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and related compliance documentation.
- Coordinates procurement activities, including ordering, receiving, organizing, and stocking laboratory supplies and materials.
- Assists in preparing laboratory classrooms and instructional spaces for the start of each semester and ensures operational readiness throughout the academic year.
- Maintains cleanliness, organization, and operational readiness of the Media Preparation Center and laboratory classrooms.
- Records and maintains inventory records, laboratory reports, and operational data.
- Inspects laboratory equipment, coordinates maintenance and repair activities, and recommends equipment replacement when necessary.
- Coordinates effectively with laboratory instructors, teaching assistants, faculty, and supervisory staff to support instructional laboratory operations.
- Supervises and trains student employees in laboratory procedures, safety requirements, equipment operation, and inventory practices.
- Collects biological and environmental samples from local areas for instructional laboratory activities.
- Participates in laboratory process improvement initiatives and special projects.
- Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the functions of the position.
Required Skills and Abilities- Knowledge of laboratory compliance and hazardous waste management procedures.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple responsibilities.
- Leadership and supervisory skills.
- Detail-oriented with strong communication and coordination skills.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift/carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in laboratory environments that may involve heat, odors, chemicals, or biohazardous materials.
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