PAY GRADE: 27N

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is the largest college at the University of Delaware, comprising 22 academic departments, 2 academic centers, and 37 interdisciplinary centers, programs, and institutes across the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.,  CAS plays a central role in the University’s academic mission, providing foundational coursework for all UD students and serving more than  8,400 undergraduate and graduate majors.  CAS is home to over 520 full-time faculty who are nationally and internationally recognized scholars and innovative teachers.  With annual sponsored research expenditures exceeding $40 million, the College supports significant interdisciplinary research and maintains outstanding teaching and research facilities.  Supported by over 425 staff members and 45 postdoctoral fellows and researchers, CAS operates with annual expenditures of over $152 million and serves as a hub for interdisciplinary engagement, connecting the University with local, national, and global communities through research, creative activity, and public service.

The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry is housed within the College of Arts and Sciences and offers nationally recognized graduate and undergraduate programs. The Department currently consists of 45 tenure track, continuing track, and temporary faculty, 5 administrative staff, 16 research focused staff, 5 instructional support staff, 3 technical staff, approximately 270 undergraduate students, 146 graduate students, and 13 postdoctoral trainees. Annual departmental research expenditures total approximately $20M per year, with a total department budget of over $300k per year.

Under general supervision, the Senior Laboratory Technician performs a variety of technical laboratory duties in support of instructional and/or research programs. The principal emphasis is on preparing solutions, analyses and experiments for General, Biochemical, and Introductory Quantitative Chemistry student laboratories. Independent judgment, thorough understanding of the theory, and practical understanding of the application of scientific techniques are required.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare and distribute chemicals, unknown samples, and chemical solutions to teaching laboratories. Determine quantities to be prepared and distributed from written or oral instructions.
• Maintain and control inventories of supplies and equipment; initiate orders; receive, check and stock all ordered supplies and/or parts and equipment.
• Responsible for proper disposal of all excess solutions, chemicals, and materials used in laboratory exercises. Assist instructional staff in maintaining safe/clean environment of teaching laboratories.
• Provide training and on-site oversight of student assistants.
• Procure and set up laboratory equipment, instruments and materials used in performing scheduled tests or experiments in the laboratory.
• Demonstrate correct use of laboratory apparatus and instrumentation to teaching assistants as necessary.
• Work with departmental staff to maintain standard instructional laboratory equipment, which may include troubleshooting and making minor repairs with or without departmental shop assistance; ensure equipment is in safe working order.
• Work with departmental staff to maintain instructional laboratory computing facilities.
• Record experimental procedures, measurements, observations and tests associated with set-up and checking of experiments used in laboratory instruction.
• Keep records and write reports as required.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

ENVIRONMENTAL/OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES:

• Frequently required to use personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous materials. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma/GED and three years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• In-depth knowledge of laboratory techniques, procedures, instrumentation and principles of chemical science.
• Proficient with laboratory-focused computer technologies and use of Microsoft Office.
• Proficiency in scientific math is needed for chemical procedures used in solution preparation and introductory quantitative chemistry courses.
• Familiarity with safe use of appropriate chemicals, supplies and equipment.
• Ability to work independently from oral and written instructions.
• Ability to work effectively with faculty members and students.
• Ability to communicate effectively and interact well with people of all ages and with diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to make independent decisions and judgments.
• Technical aptitude.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• With or without assistance, must be able to routinely lift up to 50 pounds.
• Requires dexterity in handling delicate and hazardous materials.
• Ability to accurately discern colors and accurately measure out laboratory materials.
• May require a valid vehicle operator’s license and evening and/or weekend working hours on campus.
• Employment is dependent upon passing a University-specified medical evaluation related to the use of respiratory protection equipment.