SCIENCE LABORATORY COORDINATOR
#2512
General Characteristics:
A Science Laboratory Coordinator is responsible for coordinating activities in the Science labs; procures materials, services and facilities necessary for science instruction; ensures compliance with federal and state regulations to provide a safe operation; leads the work of Instructional Specialists and student assistants; does related Work as required. Work requires knowledge of science instruction, as well as excellent communication and administrative skills to plan lab activities, maintain current materials, schedule coverage, problem solve and coordinate the day-to-day operations of the Science labs. Working conditions include potential exposure to body fluids, disease organisms and hazardous materials.
Examples of Work:
Determines specifications of needed materials in consultation with faculty and staff; recommends equipment and materials for purchase; prepares purchase orders for instructional materials, supplies and equipment; obtains bids and quotes in accordance with purchasing guidelines; establishes independent contract agreements; maintains accounting system for expenditure and revenue accounts; administers VISA and petty cash accounts.
Assigns and directs the work of Science Department aides and student assistants; supervises laboratory and lecture demonstration preparations and the cleaning and maintenance of equipment and facilities following labs; assigns special tasks to Instructional Specialists as required by department needs.
Supervises the use, storage and disposal of flammable, poisonous, corrosive or other hazardous materials; orients and informs staff of the nature of hazardous materials, the policies and regulations governing their use and the use of safety equipment; interprets safety legislation; implements safety procedures; prepares,,
revises and implements the chemical hygiene plan and emergency response plan.
Designs and implements maintenance schedules for rooms and equipment; supervises the maintenance of instructional items and facilities (e.g. aquaria, greenhouse).
Obtains and maintains all licenses and permits necessary for instruction and provides technical assistance on the use of science equipment and materials.
Coordinates the inventory of equipment and chemicals; monitors the condition and status of dated or unstable chemicals; prepares and maintains material safety data sheets.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of and skill in using, storing and disposing of chemicals and hazardous materials; knowledge of appropriate federal and state safety laws; ability to effectively direct and coordinate the activities of assigned staff and student assistants; skill in training and monitoring performance of staff; skill in working with a microcomputer, personal protective equipment, microscopes, spectrometers, chromatographs and other precision and scientific equipment; knowledge of academic laboratory requirements; skill in science equipment maintenance; ability to organize tasks and work independently; ability to work effectively with a wide variety of staff and students; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to use science literature and reference texts; knowledge of microscopy; ability to read, understand and interpret federal and state regulations; ability to monitor budget status; ability to keep accurate records; ability to work safely.
Supervision:
Reports to and works under the general supervision of the Science chair. Work is performed independently using previously learned knowledge and skills according to applicable rules and regulations. Work is reviewed by feedback from students and staff or by observation of the quality of assistance provided to students and staff. This position coordinates and leads the work of Science Department Instructional Specialists and student assistants. This position has responsibility to plan work, assign tasks, provide priorities and be available to answer questions or troubleshoot problems on a daily basis.
Minimum Qualifications:
A bachelor's degree in a science discipline is required. Three years of experience operating and maintaining science equipment and materials in a laboratory or similar setting is required.
Equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered qualifying.
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