Summary

Performs standardized or prescribed research assignments involving a sequence of related operations under detailed and controlled research, laboratory, or field procedures in physics, astronomy, geology, chemistry, and similar fields. Conducts a variety of standardized tests; prepares test specimens. Sets up and operates standard laboratory testing equipment of moderate complexity. Records test data, providing basic analyses and interpretations. May specialize in astrophysics, thermodynamics, nuclear physics, meteoritics, or related areas.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Performs routine scientific tasks requiring application of standard techniques, procedures, and criteria.
2. Obtains and processes data using standardized procedures; enters data into appropriate databases and performs basic interpretations.
3. Sets up, operates, and maintains a variety of standard laboratory or test equipment of moderate complexity, such as microscopes, telescopes, mass spectrometers, electron microscopes, and other equipment.
4. Collects, prepares, processes, logs and compiles research data, samples, solutions, materials, and/or media in strict accordance to pre-established protocol and procedural parameters.
5. Performs routine and standardized laboratory or field data acquisition, data manipulation, data reduction, and basic analysis.
6. Monitors, stocks, and procures research equipment and supplies inventories, as appropriate.
7. Uses standardized and/or 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. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; at least 1 year 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.
• Knowledge of specified laboratory solutions, materials and/or media.
• Ability to understand and apply specified field and/or laboratory research procedures and protocols.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
• Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
• Database management skills.
• Knowledge of related accreditation and certification requirements.
• Ability to set up, calibrate, operate and maintain standard physical sciences laboratory, test and/or field equipment.
• Ability to prepare and process laboratory samples using established protocols.
• Knowledge of data management techniques.
• Ability to collect field data and accurately record findings.
• Knowledge of SAS programming and/or other statistical software.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Position requires: a) Understanding and following established laboratory/field research protocol, procedure, and techniques as specific to the assignment; b) setting up, calibrating, operating, and maintaining standard physical sciences laboratory, test, and/or field equipment; c) performance of structured/standardized data acquisition, processing, and analysis using scientific statistical software; d) preparation and processing of test/evaluation materials and media as specific to the assignment; and e) monitoring and procurement of laboratory supplies and equipment.

Conditions of Employment

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

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• Light physical effort. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking. Effort applies to no more than two (2) 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