Laboratory Technician for Engineering and Physics

Job Overview

Loras College is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an educational and work environment that is inclusive, rich in diversity, and supportive of all students, faculty and staff. Individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

POSITION SUMMARY

Performs technical duties in support of Engineering and Physics courses. This part-time position is active for 40 weeks during the academic year (no summer).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Set up labs for Physics and Engineering courses, including general education.
• Maintain physics, engineering, and shop equipment. Test of equipment, repair when possible, and order replacements as needs arise and budget allows.

• Set-up and tear-down of engineering and physics labs. Some rooms are utilized for several classes and require multiple set-ups per day.

• Purchases supplies, maintaining inventory, maintenance of instruments, and proper disposal and record keeping of materials used in the laboratory.

• Records, reconciles all purchases, and submits monthly report of College credit card. Keeps an accurate balance of expenses of the Engineering programs and other accounts.

• Provides general mentoring and training to students as well as some instructional assistance of proper techniques in the laboratory settings.
• Monitor student use of shop and lab equipment during non-class times. Hold office/lab hours to allow students to work on projects outside of class.
• Maintain material inventory, such as wood and metal stock, electrical and electronic parts, piping and other materials needed for engineering and physics.
• Supervision of Wood and Metal shop during times students need to use equipment.
• Supervision of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering labs and Innovation Lab during times students need to use equipment.
• Supervises undergraduate laboratory assistants in the Engineering and Physics preparation rooms and shops.
• Maintains safety logs for the Engineering and Physics programs as well as monitoring first aid supplies.

• Maintains and updates files as required including documentation of lab setup processes as well as equipment maintenance process.

• Organizes the collection, storage, and disposal of laboratory waste materials.
• Performs laboratory tasks in accordance with established standards, policies and procedures. Procedures are completed on schedule. Safety regulations are followed.
• Perform safety inspections and testing as required by the Iowa Department of Public Health and Lab Safety guidelines.
• Assists with maintenance of the equipment and instrumentation in the planetarium and observatory including ordering and replacing spent star-projector bulbs and other parts.
• Informs faculty supervisors of area activities and of any significant problems. Recommends improvements in policies and procedures.
• Assist with development, construction, and testing of new laboratory experiments and equipment.
• Assist with organizing, cleaning, and simple remodeling of existing laboratory and classroom space.
• Maintains a good working relationship with faculty, staff, students and vendors. Concerns are promptly addressed and any problems effectively resolved.
• Supports the mission and vision of the College and respects the College's Catholic tradition.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Competency Statement(s)

• Accountability - Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
• Autonomy - Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Communication, Oral - Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word.
• Communication, Written - Ability to communicate in writing clearly and concisely.
• Constituent Focus - Ability to understand the viewpoint and objectives of internal and external College constituents.
• Interpersonal - Ability to get along well with a variety of personalities and individuals.
• Management Skills - Ability to organize and direct oneself and effectively supervise others.
• Mission and Vision of the College - Demonstrates a commitment to the Mission and Vision of Loras College.
• Presentation Skills - Ability to effectively present information publicly.

Education: Associate Degree in Machining is preferred. Associate degrees in related areas will be considered depending on the background and experience of the applicant.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Other Requirements: Good interpersonal skills to work with faculty and students. Skilled in the use of a personal computer and Microsoft Office Suite.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE. Applicants must go to: http://loras.applicantpool.com to apply. Please upload: your letter of application and resume. The finalist will need to pass a background check before receiving a written employment offer.