Science Lab Specialist

This is a NON-CLASSIFIED employment opportunity. Visit the State of Colorado for Classified employment opportunities.

The Science Lab Specialist provides academic support and preparations of specific and sometimes complex biological and chemical labs for faculty and instructor, allowing faculty and instructors to concentrate on academic delivery. This position oversees personnel safety working in the lab, all safety regulations required by OSHA, EPA, state and local regulations on all chemical and biological hazards used in the division. This position supervises Lab Assistants and work-study students in the lab.

Ability to work evenings and travel to multiple campuses to support student and department needs.

Reports To: Science Lab Manager

Minimum Qualifications

* Completed Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution OR completed Associate's degree from a regionally accredited institution with two years of professional level experience performing similar duties to those described for this position OR completed High School Diploma/GED with four years of professional level experience performing similar duties to those described for this position.
* Prior professional level experience preparing stock solutions in percentage, and molarity.
* Experience using word processing, spreadsheet software, and data entry.
* Familiar with correct safety and control methods.

Professional level experience is defined by the Colorado Division of Human Resources: A position that involves the exercise of discretion, analytical skill, judgment, personal accountability, and responsibility for creating, developing, integrating, applying, or sharing an organized body of knowledge. Colorado revised statute (C.R.S. 24-50-135(1) allows colleges to exempt positions from the State Personnel Classified System that are determined to be professional level work.

Preferred Qualifications

* Completed Bachelor of Science degree in Biology or Chemistry from a regionally accredited institution.
* Two or more years of professional level laboratory experience in a science lab.
* Familiar with OSHA, EPA, state and local safety regulations.
* Experience working with students in a teaching environment.
* Experience with Banner system.

For full consideration, all application materials must be received by 4:00 p.m. on April 12, 2024. Applications accepted until position is filled.

Must be a State of Colorado resident or able to relocate to Colorado prior to first date of employment.

Application Instructions: Application must be submitted online. Incomplete applications may not receive full consideration. A complete application will include:

* Cover letter - Address the minimum and preferred qualifications in the order listed on the job announcement.
* Resume - Reflect experience, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities.
* Unofficial Transcripts - Unofficial transcripts for all degrees conferred. Official transcripts are required if hired for the position.
* Professional References - Provide names and contact information for three recent professional references who can address your expertise and background for this position.

This position may be eligible for a variety of employee benefits. Pikes Peak State College participates in the Colorado Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA) contribution rates.

Note: Prior submission of application materials will not be considered.

Essential Functions

MAINTAIN SCIENCE LAB INVENTORIES AND RECORD KEEPING:

* Maintain proper operating procedures for storing chemicals, microorganisms, live material and preserved specimens, according to standard laboratory practices in the appropriate field. Ensure proper hazardous signs are posted in the appropriate storage areas.
* Maintain and update inventory database as needed for lab equipment, general lab supplies and chemicals (chemical name(s)/hazards/quantities per state and local regulations).
* Utilize p-card and purchase orders to purchase equipment and supplies for the sciences and reallocate under the state of Colorado Procurement Program.
* Arrange for small apparatuses/appliances to be repaired, i.e., pipettors, Vernier equipment, etc.
* Calibrate and update equipment software as needed.
* Notify Facilities of large equipment failures, i.e., refrigerators, ice machines, furniture, etc.
* Knowledge of Vernier equipment and software, micropipettes, autoclave, thermocycler, centrifuge, fluorescent microscope, compound and dissecting microscopes.

MANAGE, PERFORM AND CONTROL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL WASTE

* Oversee or perform regular biohazard kills using the autoclave and in accordance with federal and state regulations.
* Oversee safe chemical waste disposal in accordance with the PPSC Chemical Hygiene Plan, federal and local regulations.
* Identify and track chemicals with extreme hazards to reduce unwarranted disasters.
* Enforce policies and standard operating procedures (SOP) to ensure safe handling of chemical and biological waste.
* Maintain safety and chemical hazard training records on each Lab Assistant and work-study student.

CLASSROOM SUPPORT

* Maintain and organize daily lab schedule and manage set-up and breakdown of laboratory equipment, materials, and supplies as prescribed in the cart sheets. Ensure the laboratory is prepared with all requirements for the course's scheduled start time.
* Prepare or assist with preparation of materials, chemical reagents, solutions, bacteria control cultures, microbiology media, etc. as needed.
* Ensure hazardous material is stored in compliance with state and local regulations.
* Provide appropriate safety rules and student agreement lab forms for labs.
* Trouble shoot failed lab experiments, drawing from academic and technical expertise and past experiences.
* Check that basic lab classroom conditions, computers, and projectors are in working order. Report to IT and/or facilities any lab room repairs needed.
* Be available for classroom emergencies.
* Scheduling the use of and /or setting up laboratory equipment, materials and supplies, and space.
* Purchase groceries & supplies from the local market for the labs.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

* Train work-study students, Lab Assistants, and Faculty to use laboratory equipment to conduct experiments.
* Establish and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff and students.
* Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
* Work in a fast-paced and demanding environment.
* Be self-motivated, have organizational skills, and the initiative to work independently to meet deadlines.
* Ability to prioritize, manage and complete multiple projects simultaneously.

General Duties, Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

* Cultural competence and demonstrated evidence, understanding, and commitment to the concepts of diversity, multiculturalism, and their application in the workplace.
* Ability to interpret and adhere to college procedures and guidelines, Board Polices and System Procedures, and all applicable State and Federal laws and regulations.
* Ability to travel to multiple campuses to support department needs.
* Maintain confidentiality while working effectively with all constituents.
* Understanding of chemical group properties and hazards associated with the chemicals for proper storage and disposal.
* Ability to operate and troubleshoot an autoclave and small equipment utilized in the biology and chemistry labs.
* Ability to use Microsoft 365 software, Banner, and printers/copiers.
* Ability to organize and multitask.
* Ability to maintain an established work schedule, including occasional evenings.

As part of the State of Colorado, PPSC offers a competitive benefits package:

* PERA retirement benefits.
* Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage.
* Life and Disability Coverage.
* Flexible Spending Accounts.
* Paid Holidays.
* Tuition Reimbursement.
* Accrued Annual and Sick Leave.
* Some positions may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

This job description reflects Pikes Peak State College's best effort to describe the essential duties and qualifications of the job. It is not an exhaustive statement of all the duties, responsibilities or qualifications of the job. This document is not intended to exclude an opportunity for modifications consistent with providing reasonable accommodation.

EEO Statement: Pikes Peak State College is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Americans with Disabilities Act institution. We value diversity, strive for a more unified campus where all people are valued, treated fairly, and possess a sense of belonging. Pikes Peak State College encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.