Laboratory Assistant - Grand Rapids Community College

This 40 hour/week position is split between the Biology and Physical Sciences Departments (approximately 27 hours are spent working in the Biology Department and approximately 13 hours are spent working in the Physical Sciences Department). While ultimately reporting to the Department Head of Biology, this position coordinates with faculty and staff from both departments to oversee activities in both departments on the GRCC Main Campus and at Off-Site classes. Acts as liaison to faculty and personnel at off-campus locations, and transports labs, supplies, and equipment to off-site locations. Acts as a safety coordinator for the departments at sites where labs are delivered. Characterizes all waste generated by laboratory experiments and packs hazardous waste for disposal. Handles all issues related to lab supplies, including ordering supplies and instruments, maintaining (equipment, chemical and SDS) inventories, and managing proper storage. This position may require weekday, evening and/or weekend duties with variable time schedules.

Requisition ID: 99
Employee Group: Meet and Confer
Schedule: 40 hours/ 52 Weeks
Compensation: AP2, $19.83 per hour
Benefits: Full Time
Reports to: Instructional Laboratory Coordinator
Posting Opens: 09/09/2024
Posting Closes: 09/24/2024

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Coordinates biological and physical sciences labs at GRCC Off-Site locations
• Coordinates biological and physical sciences labs on GRCC Main campus
• Assumes additional duties of lab preparation, setup, and take-down for other laboratory classes as time permits.
• Communicates and collaborates with the Dean of GRCC Lakeshore Campus and other Off-Site personnel to ensure smooth operation of Off-Site classes.
• Manages inventories and needs assessment for weekend and off-site laboratories.
• Transports labs, supplies, and equipment to and from off-site locations.
• Prepares and maintains bacterial cultures for BI 127 and BI 152 labs and formulates required media and stains.
• Independently formulates, prepares and packages chemical/biological reagents and student unknown samples.
• Analyzes and troubleshoots failed experiments and/or inconsistent experimental results and investigates new and innovative laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Pursues, suggests, develops, and tests the use of modified and/or new labs.
• Monitors and trains student workers and laboratory assistants in collaboration with the Instructional Laboratory Coordinator.
• Provides technical support or assistance to faculty and students.
• Assists with the development and maintenance of department budgets for instructional laboratory supplies/equipment.
• Reconciles and maintain department purchasing records.
• Regular attendance during normal scheduled hours is required. Being present is essential for serving customers and performing the essential functions of this position.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Updates laboratory preparation notes.
• Collects and maintains a library of instrument manuals, user guides, vendor supply catalogs and SDS records.
• Engages in professional development activities and maintains expertise in the field of biology.
• Maintains and repairs laboratory equipment.
• Participates in departmental community service events and activities.
• Executes other duties as assigned by the Laboratory Coordinator and/or the Department Head.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Educational Credentials

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field required.

Work Experience

• Knowledge of safety issues and OSHA regulations.
• Experience in microbiology preparation (culturing of microbes, media preparation, chemical preparation, autoclave use).
• Exposure to biosafety practices and procedures for microbiological laboratories.
• Possession of leadership qualities, good people service skills and a student-oriented focus.

Skills

• Laboratory Coordination and Management
• Effective Communication and Collaboration
• Technical Proficiency in Laboratory Techniques
• Inventory and Budget Manager
• Training and Supervision

Physical Demands

• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to efficiently, accurately and safely operate laboratory equipment and tools.
• Stand or sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds.

Mental Demands

• Ability to perform routine and unexpected duties with minimum supervision.
• Possess mature judgment and is flexible in regards to interruptions and schedule changes.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to collaborate effectively and maintain a positive working relationships with colleagues.

Working Conditions

• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.
• Laboratory environment in an academic setting
• Travel to off-site locations.
• Exposure to contaminants and hazardous conditions on a weekly basis.

BENEFITS

• Health Coverage: Six health insurance plan options, including one with no health insurance premiums.
• Time off: Enjoy substantial vacation time.
• Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership.
• Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities.
• Retirement Plans: Secure your future with our retirement options, including the state retirement plan or a 401A with a 12% employer contribution.

NEXT STEPS / APPLICATION PROCESS

• Please fill out an application at https://www.grcc.edu/careers. Submit a cover letter and resume. The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting.
• Predictive Index Assessment (behavioral & cognitive) REQUIRED: In order to have your application considered, you must complete the assessments: https://assessment.predictiveindex.com/bo/8MMT/Laboratory_assistant

HIRING PROCESS

• GRCC uses an Evidence Based Selection Process, where we make data driven hiring decisions to help mitigate bias throughout the hiring process. As part of this process, candidates will participate in assessments (cognitive and behavioral), reference checks and interviews.
• Individuals with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Grand Rapids Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available.

NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.