Specialist: Laboratory - Physics/Engineering

About the role

The Lab Specialist - Physics/Engineering supports faculty and colleagues across multiple disciplines, focusing on traditional Physics labs and an Engineering lab with integrated makerspace capabilities. Key responsibilities include preparing and breaking down experiments, maintaining and operating 3D printers and laser cutters, overseeing lab upkeep, and providing training and support.

Responsibilities

• Create instructions for preparing, setting up, and breaking down experiments.
• Maintain experiment prep sheets, schedules, and inventories using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Compile and analyze reports, statistics, and recommendations for laboratory experiments.
• Write and maintain chemical recipes, including disposal protocols.
• Communicate and coordinate with instructors.
• Provide training to science lab staff on standard laboratory techniques and protocols.
• Practice appropriate lab safety procedures and look for ways to minimize lab hazards.
• Cross-train in other Division of Sciences disciplines.
• In partnership with other Lab Specialists, manage hazardous waste disposal, including reporting and compliance.
• Support classroom safety as needed.
• Keep SDS files up to date.
• Purchase materials/equipment as approved.
• Research, create, and troubleshoot classroom science experiments, and evaluate material/equipment needs.
• Utilize and maintain specialized laboratory equipment to prepare materials for experiments and the classroom.
• Maintain detailed maintenance records.
• Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting equipment as needed.
• Coordinate the cleaning and stocking of classrooms, prep areas, and Learning Labs.
• Identify and oversee beginning-of-semester and end-of-semester tasks using Smartsheet.
• Supervise lab technicians and aides as delegated by the Laboratory Supervisor.
• Participate in Division of Sciences Laboratory Specialist Working Groups.
• Participate in professional development and continuing education.
• Participate in Division of Sciences outreach events.
• Perform all other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Associate degree in a closely related field of study or equivalent experience with strong transferable makerspace or fabrication skills.
• One to three years of equivalent experience demonstrating strong transferable makerspace or fabrication skills.
• Preferred Bachelor’s degree in physics, engineering, or closely related field of study.
• Three to five years of equivalent experience demonstrating strong transferable makerspace or fabrication skills.
• Knowledge, skills, and abilities as outlined in the job requirements section.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong technical knowledge and expert-level, hands-on experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting fabrication equipment, including 3D printers and laser cutters/printers.
• Advanced working knowledge of industry-standard engineering and design software, including SolidWorks, AutoCAD, TinkerCAD, Vernier, and Google Workspace.
• Hands-on experience with soldering, calipers, micrometers, air tracks, force gauges, photogates, multimeters, diffraction gratings, prisms, and thermocouples.
• Proper use and care of equipment, including band saws, drill presses, belt sanders, and handheld power tools.
• Knowledge of Engineering Safety, Applied Physics, and equipment mechanics.
• Proficiency in math calculations common to physics and engineering.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations and guidelines for working in a science laboratory.
• Internal and external customer service principles and practices.
• Ability to follow, create, and update established protocols and safety guidelines.
• Ability to operate and maintain lab equipment.
• Ability to work both semi-independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective and positive working relationships.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks simultaneously for efficient workflow.
• Effective communication (both written and oral).
• Organization, coordination, and management skills.
• Problem-solving skills.

Physical Requirements

• Sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in a non-traditional setting.
• To stand for prolonged periods of time.
• To frequently stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist.
• To lift, carry, push, and/or pull moderate (up to 50 pounds) amounts of weight.
• To operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement to include use of a computer keyboard.
• To operate various equipment required to perform job.
• To verbally communicate to exchange information.
• May be exposed to various hazardous conditions such as infectious diseases, chemicals, or moving mechanical parts, etc.