Job Title

Lab Coordinator I

Agency

Texas A&M University - Commerce

Department

Biological & Environmental Science

Proposed Minimum Salary

$21.31 hourly

Job Location

Commerce, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT:

During the application process the “My Experience” page has a section provided “Attachments (Resume/CV, References, Cover letter, etc.)” to upload required documents. 

• Use the Upload button to add each document.
• You will be able to upload up to 5 documents. Be aware that the maximum size allowed for any one document is 5MB.
• All documents must be electronically submitted through the Texas A&M Online Employment Services website to be considered.
• Incomplete or improperly submitted applications may be excluded from consideration.
• Please do not withdraw your application in an attempt to upload a missing document, instead please email HR for help.

Please provide the following documents:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/CV
• Three professional references with complete contact information (Unsolicited letters of recommendation will not be considered).
• Transcripts (Unofficial will be accepted with application. Official transcripts are required upon acceptance of verbal offer). If transcripts are from an international institution, it is the responsibility of the prospective staff member to have the transcripts translated and evaluated by an approved credential evaluator.

If you need assistance, please contact us at HR.Hiring@tamuc.edu

SUMMARY:

The Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences is seeking a full-time Lab Coordinator to coordinate activities for instructional and research laboratories. This position requires on-site work at the department and the responsibilities of the  Science Laboratory Coordinator include:

• procures materials, services, and facilities necessary for science instruction and research laboratories;
• ensures compliance with federal, state, and A&M system regulations to provide a safe operation;
• assists the work of Instructional Specialists and graduate student assistants;
• does related Work as required.

Work requires knowledge of biological and environmental science instruction, as well as excellent communication and administrative skills to plan lab activities, maintain current materials, schedule coverage, problem solve and coordinate the day-to-day operations of the Biology and Environmental Science labs. Working conditions include potential exposure to hazardous materials and biological agents Biosafety Level 1 and 2 (BSL 1&2).

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under the direction, prepare a wide variety of laboratory reagents and culture media and for instructional laboratories
• Determines specifications of needed materials in consultation with faculty and graduate students; recommends equipment, materials, and supply for purchase and assist the department administrative associate in procuring them. Obtains bids and quotes in accordance with purchasing guidelines; establishes contract agreements for the department.
• Train graduate teaching assistants and other personnel on safety requirements for working in laboratories; maintain safety records for instructional laboratory personnel; interact with safety inspectors to ensure compliance.
• Supervises the use, storage, and disposal of bio-hazardous and chemical hazardous materials; orients and informs staff of the nature of hazardous materials, the policies and regulations governing their use, and the use of safety equipment
• Designs and implements maintenance schedules for rooms and equipment; supervises the use and maintenance of instructional and research equipment and facilities.
• Coordinates and monitors the inventory of equipment, and chemicals. Maintain the stock microbial cultures and chemicals for instructional laboratories.
• Coordinates the disposal of chemical and biohazardous waste materials with the emergency management and safety department.
• Prepares and maintains safety data sheets (SDS)/material safety data sheets (MSDS); maintains sterilization equipment including autoclaves.
• Train graduate teaching assistants and other researchers on the use of lab equipment and general lab safety

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Education: A bachelor's degree in a biological science discipline is required; Equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered qualifying.
• Experience/ Knowledge/ Skills: One (1) year of experience operating and maintaining science equipment and materials in a laboratory or similar setting is required. Knowledge of and skill in using, storing and disposing of hazardous chemicals and biological agents; knowledge of appropriate federal and state safety laws; ability to effectively direct and coordinate the activities of assigned staff and student assistants; skill in training and monitoring performance of staff; skill in working with computers, personal protective equipment, microscopes, advanced microscopes, spectrometers, chromatographs, autoclaves, and other precision scientific equipment; knowledge of academic laboratory requirements; skill in science equipment maintenance; ability to organize tasks and work independently; ability to work effectively with a wide variety of staff and students; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to use science literature and reference texts; knowledge of microscopy; ability to read, understand and interpret federal and state regulations; ability to monitor budget status; ability to keep accurate records; ability to work safely.

• Ability to: Multi-task and work well as part of a team.
• Licensing/Professional Certifications: none
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift light objects
• Other Requirements: Work beyond normal office hours and work on weekends.

PREFERRED EDUCATION/ SKILLS/ EXPERIENCE:

Masters’ degree is preferred.  Laboratory experiences in microbiology, cell biology, or molecular biology is preferred.

SUPERVISION OF OTHERS:

Reports to and works under the general supervision of the Biological and Environmental Sciences Department (BESC) head. Work is performed independently using previously learned knowledge and skills according to applicable rules and regulations. Work is reviewed by feedback from faculty, students, and staff or by observation of the quality of assistance provided. This position coordinates and leads the work of BESC Laboratory instructions and graduate student assistants and undergraduate student workers. This position has responsibility to plan work, assign tasks, provide priorities and be available to answer questions or troubleshoot problems on a daily basis.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.