Summary

Conducts highly complex, advanced technical laboratory analyses which are integrated in nature, and which require significant, in-depth knowledge of a specific area of science or engineering. May conduct complex research activities involving analysis and evaluation of research data in support of an established scientific/engineering effort.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Performs highly complex laboratory data acquisition, manipulation, reduction, and analysis within a specific area of engineering/scientific specialty.
2. Compiles data and computes results, ensuring quality control and compliance with protocol, and provides initial analyses of results to researchers; makes substantive suggestions for improvements in techniques and interpretation, as appropriate.
3. Sets up, calibrates, operates, and maintains sophisticated and/or advanced analytical and/or research laboratory test equipment, as appropriate to the position.
4. Reviews experimental and/or test results to ascertain validity and reliability of data and proper functionality of equipment.
5. Participates in experiment design; may develop and/or coordinate research and computer protocols.
6. Selects, modifies, and/or adapts equipment or procedures to specific project requirements.
7. Uses complex and/or advanced specialized statistical and scientific programs to process experimental data.
8. May lead, guide, and train staff/student employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; may participate in the recruitment of volunteers, as appropriate to the area of operation.
9. Practices safety, environmental, and/or infection control methods.
10. Maintains a broad knowledge of state-of-the-art technology, equipment and/or systems; recommends improvements and provides relevant staff training.
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

• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
• Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of expertise.
• Ability to develop and follow research methodology and protocol.
• Ability to adapt standard procedures, facilities and/or equipment to meet specific operational needs.
• Advanced knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and data analysis, manipulation, and reduction, within an area of research specialty.
• Knowledge of related accreditation and certification requirements.
• Ability to assess the validity and reliability of research data within an area of research specialty.
• Ability to set up, operate, and maintain specialized, complex, and advanced experimental and/or test equipment.
• Knowledge of advanced data analysis and statistical applications, programs, and techniques.
• Ability to analyze research methodology, protocol, and procedures and make recommendations for improvements and modifications.

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