Support Scientist

Reporting to the Associate Dean, the Support Scientist ensures the effective operation of the Science Department by maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting a wide range of scientific instrumentation and laboratory equipment. The position supports faculty and students by preparing equipment for teaching and research, maintaining specialized instruments, and ensuring safe and reliable laboratory operations.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoots mechanical, electronic, and software issues for scientific instrumentation used across the science division.
• Applies basic machining and construction skills to build, modify, and repair apparatus used in laboratory instruction and research.
• Safely handles and replaces high-pressure gas cylinders.
• Maintains, operates, and troubleshoots all major analytical instruments in the Science Division including chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and NMR systems ensuring proper calibration, part replacement, safety management, and readiness for teaching and research use.
• Maintains greenhouse plant collections housed on the Kirkbride rooftop.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned or directed to support departmental needs and align with the mission, values, and goals of the Science department and Widener University.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or a closely related scientific or technical discipline and/or previous work experience.
• Experience working with scientific laboratory instrumentation in an academic or research setting.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic machining, assembly, and equipment repair.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety practices, including safe handling of high-pressure gas cylinders and hazardous materials.
• Ability to learn, operate, and maintain complex analytical instruments and related software.
• Strong troubleshooting, organizational, and time-management skills with the ability to work independently and prioritize multiple tasks.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to support faculty, staff, and students.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift and move laboratory equipment and gas cylinders up to 50 pounds with proper safety techniques.
• Subject to periods of standing, bending, climbing stairs, reaching, and performing repetitive motions.
• Works in laboratory, mechanical, and rooftop greenhouse environments, which may involve exposure to noise, fumes, or temperature variations.
• Occasional evening or weekend hours to support instrumentation maintenance or research needs.