Lab Manager - Chemistry

Fort Valley State University (FVSU), a state and land-grant institution of the University System of Georgia, is a comprehensive institution providing education to over 2,800 students, including graduate students. Located in Fort Valley, Peach County, FVSU's 1,365-acre campus is Georgia's second-largest public university in area.

About the role

The Lab Manager – Chemistry is responsible for the day-to-day management and operation of instructional laboratories within the department. This position supports teaching and research activities by maintaining laboratory spaces, managing equipment and supplies, and ensuring compliance with institutional safety policies and procedures. The Laboratory Manager works closely with faculty, staff, and students to maintain a safe, organized, and effective laboratory environment that supports the instructional mission of the department.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and organize teaching laboratories in support of courses within the Department of Natural and Computational Sciences.
• Handle the setup and breakdown of teaching labs and general facility upkeep.
• Prepare laboratory spaces, materials, and equipment for instructional laboratories and demonstrations.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Manage laboratory inventory, including ordering, tracking, and stocking chemicals, supplies, and consumables.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and assist with procurement of laboratory materials.
• Ensure compliance with university safety policies, chemical hygiene standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Assist with chemical storage, labeling, and disposal in accordance with institutional and environmental safety guidelines.
• Coordinate routine laboratory maintenance and assist with equipment repairs or service requests.
• Support faculty with laboratory setup, equipment operation, and instructional needs.
• Maintain laboratory documentation, standard operating procedures, and safety records.
• Assist with training students and staff on proper laboratory procedures and equipment use.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Environmental Science, or a closely related field, and a minimum of 18 graduate hours in Chemistry or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Demonstrated experience working in laboratory environments.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory practices, chemical handling, and laboratory safety procedures.
• Ability to organize laboratory operations, manage supplies, and maintain accurate records.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemistry.
• Prior experience supporting instructional laboratories in a college or university setting.
• Experience with laboratory inventory systems and chemical management.
• Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation and equipment maintenance.
• Experience with laboratory safety programs and compliance standards.

Physical Requirements

Physical activities include sitting, standing, walking, lifting, kneeling, reaching, crouching, and bending. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects. The work is performed in offices, laboratories, and within buildings. The employee is exposed to standard smells associated with a chemistry laboratory, laboratory equipment, and laboratory chemicals.

Schedule

This is an in-person position with day shift hours Monday – Friday (work outside of the standard business hours may be required).