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
Oversees and coordinates the day-to-day operations of a complex, highly technical laboratory and/or cleanroom, to include oversight and leadership of lower-level technical staff and student employees. Provides expert guidance, technical oversight, and/or support to individuals engaged in research, design, and implementation within the area of defined specialty.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provides technical expertise to researchers, faculty, staff, and/or students and responds to technical questions; teaches, trains, and demonstrates laboratory/research protocols and methods, proper use of equipment and machinery, and appropriate safety procedures.
Designs, builds, tests, installs, and/or maintains complex, technical, laboratory equipment and systems, which may include lasers, semiconductors, high-vacuum chambers, fabrication technology, robotics, and/or other related equipment, as required.
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.
Provides technical leadership and instruction to lower-level technical staff and/or student employees engaged in the execution of related research; may supervise employees, as appropriate to the position.
Ensures laboratory safety and verifies that all laboratory participants have completed applicable safety training; monitors activities to ensure compliance to established safety standards and executes appropriate interventions when necessary.
Maintains and/or oversees maintenance and testing of equipment and instruments to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and safety of performance.
Maintains supplies and equipment inventories; orders supplies and equipment for the laboratory.
Assists in the annual budget planning process and regularly monitors expenditures.
Participates in student recruitment initiatives and/or events, as appropriate to departmental requirements, which may include practical demonstrations, laboratory tours, and/or other associated activities.
As appropriate to the position, implements and/or provides laboratory curriculum to students in support of academic programs; prepares and maintains specified documentation and reports on student progress.
May design and coordinate the planning of complex laboratory experiments, ensuring adherence to protocols and safety regulations; oversees troubleshooting and correction of experimental errors.
May provide and/or oversee the provision of technical services to various constituencies; collects and logs service fees, according to appropriate departmental procedures.
Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art digital technologies, equipment, machinery and/or systems.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor's degree; at least 5 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 supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control.
Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of expertise.
Knowledge of chemical, hazardous waste, industrial hygiene, and/or environmental health standards.
Ability to utilize, calibrate, configure and/or troubleshoot laboratory systems and instruments.
Knowledge of budget preparation and fiscal management.
Technical leadership skills within area of expertise.
Ability to deliver effective presentations to large and small audiences.
Working knowledge of practical teaching/instructional methods and techniques, as applicable to specific area of expertise.
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the operational requirements and standards of a technical lab, as appropriate to the position.
Advanced and in-depth knowledge of applicable laboratory, experimental, and/or research techniques, protocols, and procedures.
Conditions of Employment
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Light to Moderate physical effort which may require lifting up to 40 pounds and/or some standing or walking. Effort applies to no more than two (2) hours per day.
Work environment may involve continuous exposure to physical risks, such as operating dangerous equipment and/or working with chemicals.
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.
