Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: L7012 / Research Facility Director
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Exempt
Grade: 15
HR Review/Approval:COMP

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

Serves as the designated officer in charge of laboratory facilities and operations for a major, high-tech University laboratory research facility supporting multiple and varied research studies. Manages day-to-day facility operations, and participates in long-range facility planning and decision making with regards to current and future capacity and technology needs. Provides direct and indirect support and guidance to researchers and technical staff using the facility.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Manages all technical and operational aspects of the facility, to include protocol support, instrumentation and equipment, physical plant, and systems infrastructure.
  2. Provides strategic guidance, direction, and support to internal and external users of facilities, to include assistance with project proposal preparation.
  3. Oversees and directs the day-to-day provision of operational and user support, ensuring optimal customer satisfaction, adherence to relevant funding agency provisions, and compliance with all relevant regulations, guidelines, policies, and standards.
  4. Reviews incoming facilities usage proposals to assess technical feasibility and clarity, availability of resources, and internal support capability; interacts with prospective users and internal and external technical experts to resolve associated problems and issues.
  5. Develops and implements policies and procedures for identifying, processing, and administering user proposals; develops comprehensive systems for capturing appropriate tracking data.
  6. Oversees, directs, and coordinates the development and implementation of operational, fiscal, legal, and administrative policies, systems, and procedures for the facility.
  7. Establishes and implements short- and long-range organizational goals, objectives, strategic plans, policies, and operating procedures; monitors and evaluates programmatic and operational effectiveness, and effects changes required for improvement.
  8. Designs, establishes, and maintains an organizational structure and staffing to effectively accomplish the organization's goals and objectives; oversees recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of unit staff.
  9. Develops and manages annual budgets for the organization and performs periodic cost and productivity analyses.
  10. Represents the organization to various local, state, regional, and/or national agencies, organizations, and other constituent bodies, as appropriate.
  11. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Doctorate 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

  • Demonstrated ability to strategically manage all technical and operational aspects of a complex, high-tech laboratory facility.
  • Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.
  • Knowledge of the principles, processes, and technology associated with laboratory research within the field of study.
  • Specific knowledge and expertise directly related the nature of research being conducted in the facility.
  • Advanced knowledge and understanding of electronic data management principles, strategies, methods, procedures, and techniques.
  • Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Ability to communicate with and understand the complex requirements of scientists, engineers and professional staff in the deployment of services.
  • Ability to interact effectively and credibly with advanced technology researchers and representatives.
  • Ability to perform complex tasks and to prioritize multiple projects.
  • Ability to analyze complex problems, interpret operational needs, and develop integrated, creative solutions.
  • Demonstrated operations planning and quality management skills.
  • Organizational planning, structuring, and staffing skills.
  • Skill in financial planning and fiscal management.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • No or very limited physical effort required.
  • Work may involve some exposure to operating circumstances that require following standard or prescribed safety precautions.
  • Work is normally performed in an interior laboratory/office environment.

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

Revised Date: 03/20/2017