Instructional Lab Technician II - Biology (Temporary Assignment)

Temporary assignment at Moorpark College (Moorpark, CA) beginning Fall 2026 semester, 34 hours per week. This is an at-will position without benefits or property interest in the assignment.

About the Role

Under the direction of a Dean and work direction of an Instructor, the Instructional Lab Technician II – Biology performs complex technical work supporting biological sciences instruction, including oversight of a highly technical or complex instructional laboratory, maintenance of supplies, and preparation of Biology, Biotechnology, and Biomanufacturing labs.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and set up laboratory equipment, reagents, biological media, and other teaching aids for class demonstrations, practical examinations, and student assignments.
• Maintain stock rooms, laboratories, prep areas, and assigned spaces in a safe, clean, and orderly condition; promote proper use of facilities and safe practices.
• Care for and feed live specimens, including rodents, snakes, frogs, fish/aquariums, plants, algal, fungal, and bacterial cultures.
• Prepare and issue materials and equipment for student use; monitor and maintain records of loaned or checked-out materials.
• Order, receive, and arrange proper storage and handling of biological specimens, chemicals, and laboratory equipment; source lab materials locally; maintain inventory and supply budget.
• Perform technical microbiological preparation, including media production (tubed, bottled, plated), vital stains, special reagents, and aseptic transfers of pathogens and nonpathogens.
• Employ sterilization techniques for glassware, media, equipment, and apparatus.
• Test, adjust, maintain, and perform minor repairs, including calibrations, on laboratory equipment; coordinate major repairs.
• Maintain files and records for instructional materials, inventories, and equipment repairs; perform general clerical duties.
• Screen, select, train, and provide work direction to student workers.
• Operate technical equipment, including autoclaves, anaerobic jars, balances, microscopes, bioreactors, chromatography, and purification systems.
• Collaborate professionally with faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders from diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, and ethnic communities.
• Demonstrate cultural humility, sensitivity, and equity-mindedness; model inclusive behaviors and promote equitable outcomes.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences.
• Two years of work experience in the field of specialty, preferably in an instructional setting.

Skills & Knowledge

• Principles, practices, procedures, and equipment of Biological Sciences, including microbiology, biotechnology, and biomanufacturing.
• Health and safety regulations.
• Record-keeping techniques.
• Technical aspects of Biology, microbiology, biotechnology, and biomanufacturing.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.
• Science laboratory operation at the community college level.
• Proper methods of storing equipment, materials, and supplies.

Abilities

• Care for and secure assigned equipment, specialized materials, and supplies.
• Assemble, maintain, and perform minor repairs on lab equipment.
• Demonstrate competence in biological sciences.
• Issue and receive equipment and supplies.
• Plan and organize work.
• Train, select, evaluate, and provide work direction to student workers.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Work independently with minimal direction.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Meet schedules and deadlines.
• Maintain records and prepare reports.
• Operate and maintain related lab equipment.
• Demonstrate empathy, value, and appreciation for diverse student experiences.
• Promote equity and remove barriers to equal opportunity and participation.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Instructional biology lab environment.
• Hearing and speaking to communicate with students and faculty.
• Seeing to observe lab conditions and student behavior.
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to set up and operate lab equipment.
• Lifting and carrying heavy objects.
• Pulling and pushing carts.
• Reaching to grasp and move supplies.
• Exposure to fumes and potentially hazardous solvents used to preserve biological specimens.

Pay

$33.90 hourly.