Summary

Supervises and maintains laboratory facilities for experiments and research in a teaching laboratory. Coordinates and plans laboratory exercises with lecturers; tests and conducts experiments, exercises, and demonstrations. Supervises and provides technical guidance to staff and teaching assistants concerning pre- and post-experiment preparations and processes. Ensures compliance with health and safety standards of laboratory operations.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Designs and plans laboratory experiments, ensuring adherence to protocols and safety regulations; assists in troubleshooting and correcting experimental errors.
2. Develops quality standards and programs; monitors and maintains quality of laboratory operations and performance of laboratory staff in compliance with accreditation standards, safety and environmental regulations, and other applicable requirements.
3. Supervises personnel which typically includes recommendations for hiring, firing, performance evaluation, training, work allocation, and problem resolution.
4. Provides technical expertise to faculty and students; responds to technical questions and may teach and/or train others in research protocols and methods, experimental procedures, and use of equipment.
5. Responds to inquiries and researches and resolves problems related to transactions handled by the unit; serves as liaison with other constituencies in the resolution of day-to-day administrative and operational issues.
6. Maintains supplies and equipment inventories; orders supplies and equipment for laboratory.
7. Maintains and/or oversees maintenance of test equipment and instruments to ensure accuracy and efficient performance.
8. Serves as safety officer for laboratory.
9. Assists in the annual budget planning process and regularly monitors expenditures.
10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree; at least 3 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

• Knowledge of accreditation and certification requirements and standards.
• Knowledge of supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control.
• Skill in budget preparation and fiscal management.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of the use and maintenance of laboratory facilities and/or equipment.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems.
• Knowledge of laboratory and experimental protocols and procedures.
• Ability to utilize, calibrate, configure and/or troubleshoot laboratory testing systems and instruments.
• Ability to provide technical guidance and training to end users.
• Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
• Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
• Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Knowledge of laboratory operations and/or procedures.
• Employee development and performance management skills.
• Knowledge of chemical, hazardous waste, industrial hygiene, and/or environmental health standards.

Conditions of Employment

• Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
• 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