Science Laboratory Technician

Overview

Title: Science Laboratory Technician
Institution: Volunteer State Community College

• Oversee and assist with laboratory setups and maintenance of equipment.
• Order supplies and manage lab inventories; prepare specimens, media, and chemical solutions.
• Set up for science department laboratory courses and prepare lab kits for courses that require them.
• Periodically verify that lab experiments are functioning properly and take corrective action as needed.
• Troubleshoot problems and answer questions; ensure prep areas and labs are well organized, clean, and secure.
• Wash glassware and other equipment and return to stock; maintain proper storage of materials (chemical stocks, biological specimens, chemical wastes, etc.).
• Ensure Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all new materials are added to the college database.
• Initiate orders to repair/replace equipment and consumables by anticipating future demand.
• Assist in maintaining documentation related to laboratories; ensure laboratory health and safety items (first-aid kits, chemical spill kits, eyewash stations, etc.) are maintained in good working order.
• Take the lead on chemical spill clean-up, documentation, and reporting.
• Report any signs of danger or hazard immediately to Campus Police and supervisor.
• Care for all living and preserved specimens, prepare growth media, and assist in maintaining laboratory cultures.
• Travel to maintain laboratories at off-site locations on a regular basis.
• Attend meetings and training as requested; communicate regularly with the Dean and Chair(s), and keep them apprised of schedule issues, workload concerns, and any problem that hampers efficient operation of laboratories.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Associate’s Degree (or higher).
• At least 2 years of work experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or Chemistry.

• Skill in providing safe use of laboratory equipment.
• Knowledge of experimental procedures, protocols, and preparation techniques within area of specialty.
• Ability to follow routine verbal or written instructions.
• Ability to forecast laboratory needs and resource consumption.
• Ability to identify and execute necessary tasks and troubleshoot problems independently.
• Strong time management and organizational skills to prioritize a complex workflow. Detail oriented.
• Ability to set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain standard laboratory and test equipment or willingness to learn.
• Knowledge of the cleaning specifications of various laboratory and/or medical equipment, fixtures, utensils, and related materials.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
• Knowledge of related accreditation and certification requirements.

$42,031 - $50,437 annual salary depending on experience

• Insurance:
  Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability (long and short term), FSA/HSA
• Wellness Incentive Program (if enrolled in Health)
• Educational Assistance:
  Fee Waiver, Spouse/Dependent Discounts, Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Longevity Pay
• Retirement Options:
  State of TN Pension (TCRS), 401a, 401K with up to $50/month match, 403b, and 457
• 14 Paid Holidays/Year
• Annual Leave (if applicable)
• Sick Leave
• Sick Leave Bank
• State Employee Discount Program with over 900 merchants

Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.

Applicants may be subject to a background check.