Lab Management Specialist, Chemistry and Biochemistry - Ohio University

Job Description:

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is currently accepting applications for a Lab Management Specialist.


DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC POSITION SUMMARY :


This position is responsible for Storeroom management for the Chemistry and Biochemistry department. Responsible for maintaining Storeroom inventory and chemicals for all teaching and research labs, coordinate all supply purchases with lab instructors at the undergraduate and graduate level, stocking teaching and research labs with all necessary supplies, and managing the point-of-sale operation in the storeroom. This position supports instructional and research inventory requirements in the department. May include contracting for professional services and equipment acquisition. Responsible for fiscal year funding allocations for Chemistry faculty, as instructed by the department chair.




DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES :


1. Manages the Storeroom for Chemistry/Biochemistry, which includes but is not limited to:




Chemical Handling – Safely handle and transport chemicals and gases in accordance to policies and safety regulations. Utilize appropriate Personal Protective Equipment ( PPE ) during all chemical handling. Conduct regular inspections of chemical storage areas to ensure compliance with safety standards. Train with Environmental Health and Safety and the Chemistry department safety officer on safe chemical handling practices. Provide training and guidance to others working in the Storeroom on safe chemical handling practices.




Chemical and Inventory Tracking – Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all chemical and other inventories in the whole department utilizing ChemInventory software, to insure all instructional and research needs are met. Monitor the usage and storage of chemicals to ensure proper documentation and reporting. Implement and oversee inventory control measures to prevent shortages and overstocking. Manage the distribution process of the storeroom throughout all teaching and research labs.




Safety and Compliance – Adhere to all relevant, federal, state, and local regulations regarding chemical handling and disposal. Participate in safety training programs. Report any incidents, spills, or safety concerns to the appropriate personnel immediately.




Documentation – Store Material Safety Data Sheets ( MSDS ) and ensure they are easily accessible to all employees. Assist in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to chemical handling.




Manage Students – Directs work, trains, and supervises student employees who work in the Storeroom.


Delivery Management – Receive, log, and dispense packages, as well as all chemicals and supplies to all teaching and research labs, including gases and cryogens. Refill teaching and research equipment with chemicals, gases and cryogens as needed, under the guidance of the analytical facility manager.




2. Serves as the initial contact for customers (students, faculty, and staff). Guides and assists customers with highly complex questions, paperwork, and requirements, as they relate to financial and business activities such as billing, refunds, etc. Mentors, coaches, and trains student employees in customer service and department policies. Communicates with students, faculty, staff and vendors to manage purchasing for all teaching and research needs.


3. Set up, clean out and assign student lab spaces at the beginning and end of each semester. Provide procedural training regarding student lab space to Teaching Assistants at the beginning of each semester. Assist students with purchase of lab supplies from the storeroom/stockroom. Manage and monitor fiscal year funding allocations for Chemistry faculty by tracking expenditures using Excel spreadsheets. This involves not only recording initial allocations but also analyzing spending trends to ensure alignment with the approved allocations. Provide financial reports to the department chair, highlighting variances, potential concerns, and opportunities for reallocation of funds. Ship research samples to other universities and research sites.


4. Facilitate the procurement of all goods essential for the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department. This encompasses identifying and acquiring chemicals, reagents, laboratory supplies, research materials, safety and other equipment. Responsible for all department Concur reporting related to the purchase of goods. Ensure compliance with budgetary constraints and university procurement policies while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability in all purchases.




GENERAL JOB SUMMARY :

Establishes, implements, and monitors laboratory policies and procedures. Ensures lab operations are efficient, effective, and comply with established procedures.





GENERAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES :







+ Provides technical lab support by performing complex laboratory- and research-related tasks, which support faculty and graduate students with research projects.



+ Applies expert technical knowledge of equipment construction and troubleshooting, fabrication and machining, and other complex laboratory and/or other research methods and equipment functions.



+ Performs a variety of tests requiring a high degree of proficiency.



+ Troubleshoots problems and recommends solutions.



+ Evaluates experiment results using statistical analysis.



+ May instruct a laboratory academic section in research techniques, instruments, methods, and procedures.





Minimum Qualifications:

Comprehensive knowledge of lab and research support typically obtained through an Associate’s degree in a science or technical field and a minimum of 2 years of laboratory and/or research support experience.


An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is acceptable. Specific knowledge, certifications, and licensure will apply at the position level.


Valid driver’s license


Chemical Hygiene Safety Training (OU EHS provided)


Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands:




+ Occasional heavy lifting, carrying, etc.



+ Extensive standing, walking, etc.



+ Exposure to all weather conditions.



+ Exposure to hazardous materials.





Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree



Planning Unit: College of Arts & Sciences


Department: Chemistry and Biochemistry


Applicants may contact this person if they have questions about this position: Joey Pierce, piercej@ohio.edu, 740-593-4565


Employment Type: full-time regular


Advertised Salary:

The starting salary range is $16.84 per hour up to $21.48 per hour, dependent on education and prior experience and is accompanied by our generous university benefits such as tuition for self and dependents, a comprehensive insurance package (including but not limited to health, prescription, vision, dental, and life insurance), an excellent retirement plan including company contributions, parental leave, adoption reimbursement, and more. OHIO is also proud to offer wellness programs, on-site wellness facilities, and a generous employee assistance program. Additional Information is available at: https://www.ohio.edu/hr/benefits/.