Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: L0013 / Research Specialist/Facilities
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 11

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Performs highly complex, specialized engineering fabrication and maintenance in direct support of new and existing research programs. Oversees and coordinates advanced digital/electronic facilities control systems and processes, and tests, repairs, and maintains various advanced engineering systems related to the research being performed. Oversees and coordinates the work of independent contractors, as appropriate.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Designs and fabricates complex prototypes and other devices directly related to advanced research projects, and selects and/or modifies equipment to meet specific project requirements; fabricates devices for emergency facilties repair as necessary.
  2. Operates, coordinates, and maintains the facility's various mechanical, electronic, and digital control systems; assists in the administration of digital maintenance management systems for the facility, as appropriate.
  3. Performs installations of various new, state-of-the-art technologies associated with the research project; maintains up-to-date knowledge of high technology topics related to such installations.
  4. Trains and advises faculty, staff, and/or students in technical aspects of the development and fabrication/implementation of various research experiments.
  5. Maintains life safety systems for the facility, including written documentation to ensure compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local regulations, as well as University policies; assists as required with the preparation and delivery of facility safety training.
  6. Maintains current knowledge of relevant building codes, and monitors facility operations to ensure compliance with such codes.
  7. Oversees the activities of independent contract personnel engaged in facility repairs and new installation of facilities and equipment.
  8. Researches, identifies, and interacts with available external resources for repair of complex research equipment and/or facilities hardware related to the project.
  9. Identifies need, and develops and maintains appropriate inventories of repair and replacement parts for research equipment and facilities.
  10. Interprets and applies mechanical, electrical, electronic, and/or controls blueprints and/or schematics as required to perform new installations, modifications, and repairs.
  11. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED; at least 7 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
  • Ability to supervise students and contractors and coordinate projects of varying complexity.
  • Knowledge of fabrication methods and materials as they relate to a designated advanced physical sciences research specialty.
  • Working knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical and automated facility/building control systems.
  • Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart confidential information.
  • Knowledge of mechanical systems, building materials, and various facilities system components.
  • Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
  • Ability to set up, operate, and maintain specialized, complex, and advanced experimental and/or test equipment.
  • Specialized knowledge of related engineering or scientific research principles, and knowledge of industry best-practices.
  • Ability to operate, repair, troubleshoot, and modify various research equipment specific to the designated research project.
  • Ability to perform basic machining operations using various hand and power tools.
  • Ability to clearly communicate complex technical information in a manner that is understandable to non-specialist personnel.
  • Knowledge of appropriate federal, state, and local regulations, building codes, and ordinances.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and modify electrical, electronic and/or microprocessor schematics, blueprints and logic circuits.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) the use of independent judgment in the adaptation of complex research concepts to the fabrication and modification of specialized research equipment; b) design, fabrication, installation, and troubleshooting of various devices and prototypes related to the research facility and the execution of research protocol; c) operating, administering, and maintaining facility mechanical and automated control systems; d) independent coordination and supervision of students and/or external contract personnel.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of objects that can weigh up to 50 pounds (or greater mass that require mechanical assistance). Standing or walking may occur up to 40% of time.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
  • Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 03/20/2017