Assists the Biology Department Laboratory Coordinator with the coordination of daily activities in the Biology instructional laboratory classrooms, stockrooms, long-term storage, and preparation areas. This position may require weekday, evening, and/or weekend duties, with a flexible work schedule.
Requisition ID:
Employee Group: Contingency
Schedule:
Compensation:
Reports to: Dean of Lakeshore Campus
Posting Opens:
Posting Closes:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Assists with the coordination, preparation, transportation, assembling, and dismantling of materials, tools, and equipment required for laboratory demonstrations and exercises within the biological science department.
- This work may include transporting instructional laboratory supplies and equipment to and from various locations, such as between the Lakeshore Campus and the downtown campus in Grand Rapids.
- Assists with the formulation, preparation, and packaging of chemical or biological reagents, solutions, solids, stains, media, and unknown samples required for all laboratory demonstrations and experiments in the biological science department.
- Assists with all safety aspects related to instructional laboratory classrooms, stockrooms, long-term storage, and preparation areas. Maintains security, practices safe handling, proper storage, and labeling of chemicals, reagents, biological specimens, and assists with the packaging and characterization of laboratory waste generated by the biological science department.
- Assists with updating laboratory preparation notes.
- Maintains a library of scientific laboratory equipment instructional manuals and SDS records.
- Maintains proper housekeeping in the biology and chemistry instructional laboratory classrooms, stockrooms, long-term storage, and preparation areas as required. Cleans laboratory glassware, tables, equipment, etc.
- Restocks student laboratory stations and laboratory kits as needed.
- Assembles, calibrates, and maintains scientific equipment and instruments as necessary.
- Follow College policy on the Family Educational Right to Privacy Act (FERPA).
JOB SPECIFICATIONS
Qualifications
- Associate’s degree or higher with a chemistry or biology emphasis or equivalent laboratory work experience.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and use of safety devices.
- Must possess basic laboratory skills consistent with biology and chemistry laboratory courses, including the ability to calculate and prepare chemical solutions and reagents to exacting standards without supervision.
Skills
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of common chemicals reactions.
- Ability to preform chemical calculations and use standarfd chemical references.
- Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population and faculty team.
- Proficiency in using instructional technology and learning management systems (e.g.,Gmail, Canvas, Blackboard).
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds.
- Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to efficiently, accurately, and safely operate laboratory equipment and tools.
- Ability to stand or sit for long periods.
- Must have mobility to navigate between the 4 floors where the departments are located.
Mental Demands
- Must possess a high degree of attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize and complete tasks in a timely manner.
- Needs to be a team player who maintains a positive working relationship with co-workers.
- Must be proficient in verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills to work effectively with people of diverse ages, ethnic, sexual, and socio-economic backgrounds.
- Ability to work under pressure and back up the Laboratory Coordinator position.
- Possess mature judgment and flexibility regarding interruptions and schedule changes.
- Must use good judgment in handling sensitive or difficult situations.
- Project a professional image, including punctuality and a good attendance record.
- Demonstrate initiative, problem-solving abilities, and resourcefulness.
- Ability to perform daily routine and unexpected duties with minimum supervision.
- Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
- Must be self-motivated, dependable, professional, and courteous.
- Regular attendance during normal scheduled hours is required. Being present is essential for performing the essential functions of this position.
Working Conditions
- Laboratory environment in an academic setting.
- Exposure to contaminants and hazardous conditions on a weekly basis.
- GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.
- Must be able to work flexible hours (i.e. evenings and night) including occasional weekends.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment that calls for flexibility/adaptability and the ability to handle multiple interruptions and make quick decisions.