Science Lab Technician

The Science Laboratory Technician performs specialized technical work in support of undergraduate instructional laboratories across the physical sciences and related scientific disciplines. This position applies scientific principles, laboratory techniques, quantitative calculations, and technical problem-solving to prepare, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory experiments, instrumentation, and equipment. Working in collaboration with faculty, course laboratory coordinators, and laboratory operations staff, the technician interprets experimental protocols, determines material and equipment requirements, prepares chemical solutions and reagents, evaluates equipment functionality, and resolves technical issues that affect laboratory readiness and experimental outcomes. The position requires an understanding of scientific methods, laboratory instrumentation, chemical properties, and safe laboratory practices to support consistent, reliable, and safe instructional experiences. The technician exercises independent judgment in organizing laboratory preparation activities, adapting established procedures to available equipment and materials, identifying technical and safety concerns, and maintaining compliance with university policies and applicable regulations. The position also supports laboratory inventory and procurement, hazardous-material management, documentation, and the training and work direction of student employees. Responsibilities Laboratory Preparation and Experimental Implementation Interpret experimental protocols and laboratory procedures to determine the equipment, chemicals, reagents, materials, quantities, and preparation methods required for assigned experiments. Calculate and prepare chemical solutions, reagents, dilutions, and other laboratory materials using appropriate scientific calculations, measurement techniques, and established procedures. Assemble and configure experimental apparatus, laboratory stations, and materials according to established protocols and technical specifications. Test experimental setups and prepared materials to identify discrepancies or conditions that could affect the execution or reliability of laboratory activities. Apply scientific principles and systematic troubleshooting methods to resolve preparation errors, experimental setup issues, reagent discrepancies, and other technical problems. Determine material quantities and prepare appropriate allocations of supplies based on experimental protocols, enrollment figures, and scheduled laboratory activities. Develop, maintain, and revise laboratory preparation sheets, material lists, and experiment-specific technical instructions. Verify the identity, concentration where applicable, labeling, and readiness of prepared solutions and materials before use. Organize and maintain laboratory preparation areas to ensure materials and experimental setups are ready for scheduled instructional activities. Laboratory Equipment, Instrumentation, Inventory, and Procurement Operate, inspect, assemble, and test laboratory equipment, scientific instruments, and apparatus to determine functionality and readiness for use. Perform routine preventive maintenance, operational checks, and basic calibration where applicable, following equipment specifications and established procedures. Diagnose routine equipment malfunctions and performance issues; determine when specialized repair or technical support is required. Coordinate equipment servicing and repairs with vendors, service providers, and appropriate university personnel. Maintain equipment records, including inventory, location, condition, maintenance, and service history, as applicable. Monitor laboratory supplies and consumables, assess inventory levels, anticipate replenishment needs, and identify shortages that could affect laboratory operations. Prepare purchase requests, place orders through university purchasing systems, communicate with vendors, coordinate receipt of materials…

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