Laboratory Specialist, Microbiology/Biology
Pima Community College

Pima Community College

Pima Community College Named 5th Best Employer to Work for in Arizona

Position Title: Laboratory Specialist, Microbiology/Biology

Department: East Campus

Starting Rate: Band 3 - $20.24 - $25.29

Closed Date: February 9, 2023, 5:00 PM Arizona Time

Position Summary:

The Lab Specialist - Micro/BIO works in the instructional areas of the natural/physical sciences performing a variety of skilled technical support duties across multiple scientific disciplines and is responsible for the organization and operation of assigned laboratory preparation areas.

Organizes lab experiments and/or related exercises and implements safety procedures. Oversees inventory of supplies, equipment, and other materials needed for daily operations of the lab or assigned space. Completes assigned technical duties as a (microbiology, biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and geology) laboratory specialist.

Evening and/or weekend hours may be required. Although this position is housed at the East Campus, the specialist may be scheduled at other campuses as required.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Creates instructions for how to prepare and set up science courses experiments. Maintains experiment schedules and inventories using the Laboratory Information Management System Compiles and analyzes reports, statistics, and recommendations. Writes chemical and media recipes including disposal of chemical and biochemical reagents
• Provides the necessary training to science lab staff of standard laboratory techniques as directed by the Science Laboratory Supervisor. Practices appropriate lab safety procedures and looks for ways to minimize lab hazards. Cross trains in other Division of Sciences disciplines
• Oversees chemical and/or biological stocks. Handles and reports hazardous waste disposal following institutional and governmental guidelines. Maintains and keeps SDS files up to date
• Participates and coordinates the preparation and cleanup of materials and equipment for (microbiology, biology, chemistry, physics, engineering and geology or other assigned area) experiments
• Assess classroom needs and acquire material and equipment for classrooms. Purchase of materials/equipment as approved. Receives, verifies, and enters order information into the Laboratory Information Management System
• Collaborates with Science Faculty and Science Laboratory Supervisor to research, create or troubleshoot classroom science experiments, and evaluate material/equipment needs. Participates in Division of Sciences outreach events
• Utilizes and maintains specialized laboratory equipment to prepare materials for experiments and the classroom
• Participates and coordinates the cleaning and stocking of classrooms, prep areas, and Learning Lab. Identifies and oversees the end-of-semester tasks of laboratory areas
• May provide lab supervision as delegated by Laboratory Supervisor including day-to-day direction of activities and tasks of lab technicians and aides when Lab Supervisor is not available
• Actively participates in the Division of Sciences Laboratory Specialist Working Group (microbiology, biology, chemistry, physics, engineering and geology)
• Participates in professional development and continues education of to keep aware of changes or advances in assigned discipline
• Performs all other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor

Job Requirements:

• Associate degree in closely related field of study and
• One to three years of related experience in a science laboratory

or

• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in science or closely related field of study
• Three to five years of laboratory related experience in an institution of higher learning

Additional Information:

• May require specialized certification depending on assigned department including a Hazardous Materials Certification

The ideal candidate will have the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Strong technical knowledge and hands-on experience in the methodologies that are involved in the preparation of culturing, identifying, isolating, staining, and safe disposal of microbiological organisms
• Hands-on experience with DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis
• Math used in the preparation of chemical and reagent solutions
• Safe handling and storage of hazardous chemicals and biological materials
• Federal, state, and local regulations and guidelines for working in a science laboratory
• Proper use and care of laboratory equipment such as micropipettes, pH meters, microscopes, centrifuges, autoclaves, Nanodrop, PCR, etc.
• Work as part of a team
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance principles and practices
• Knowledge of internal and external customer service principles and practices
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques
• Knowledge and application of various instructional methodologies
• Skill in effective communication (both written and oral)
• Skill in organization, coordination, and management
• Skill in problem solving
• Ability to develop and maintain effective and positive working relationships
• Ability to operate relevant equipment required to complete assigned responsibilities for the position

Physical Requirements:

Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in a non-traditional setting; to stand for prolonged periods of time; to frequently stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate (up to 20 pounds) amounts of weight; to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement to include use of a computer keyboard; to operate various equipment required to perform job; and to verbally communicate to exchange information. May be exposed to various hazardous conditions such as infectious disease, chemicals, or moving mechanical parts, etc.

NOTE: The above job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department.

This job has expired.