Temporary - Laboratory Technician - Biology​/Chemistry - Coast Center

Short‑Term, Non‑Continuing Laboratory Technician – Biology/Chemistry (Coast Center, Fort Bragg)

This temporary, non‑continuing position requires 10 hours per week at $27.04 per hour. The role supports biology and chemistry labs by preparing, stocking, and maintaining instructional materials and equipment.

• Prepare chemistry and biology labs for instructional activities, including solutions, media, live specimens, and laboratory equipment.
• Organize lab schedules, prioritize tasks, and troubleshoot experiments or student errors.
• Maintain laboratory supplies, clean equipment, and store materials safely; ensure eye wash stations, safety showers, fume hoods, first aid kits, and fire blankets are operational.
• Complete periodic inventory of supplies and chemicals, and initiate requisitions for new purchases.
• Communicate with vendors to obtain product information, make cost comparisons, and maintain budget records.
• Handle hazardous chemicals and pathogens safely, store cultures, and oversee off‑site disposal of hazardous waste.
• Explain labeling and safety procedures to students and maintain safety data files.
• Operate and perform minor repairs on laboratory instruments such as microscopes, balances, spectrophotometers, gas chromatographs, and pH meters.
• Check student drawers for cleanliness and restock supplies as needed.
• Serve as a resource for part‑time instructors regarding facilities, equipment, and safety regulations.
• Coordinate with inspectors and safety officers, inspect classrooms and storage facilities, and attend meetings and workshops as directed.
• Perform related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

• Biology/chemistry theories relevant to offered courses.
• Safe receiving, handling, and storage of hazardous chemicals and pathogens.
• Proper operation and setup of lab equipment.
• Safety procedures for a biology and chemistry lab.
• Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct.
• Basic instructional methods and techniques.
• Basic instructional record‑keeping.
• Basic computer operation.
• Basic research methods in media preparation.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.

• Prepare and set up solutions, media, live specimens, and supplies.
• Learn the curriculum, goals, and objectives of the program.
• Organize and monitor critical lead times for labs.
• Maintain laboratory and equipment in safe operating condition according to safety regulations.
• Perform maintenance and minor repairs on instruments.
• Perform clerical duties related to classroom activities.
• Operate and demonstrate the use of laboratory materials and equipment.
• Work cooperatively with others.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Operate a microcomputer and related software.
• Prioritize and schedule work.
• Learn, apply, and explain policies, procedures, rules, and regulations related to the program.
• Maintain current knowledge of technological advances in the field.

Reaching, bending, walking, moderate lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for long periods, and the ability to handle live animals, including a human cadaver.

Biology and chemistry lab environment, with possible exposure to chemical fumes, hazardous materials, carcinogens, teratogens, poisons, and potential explosives.

• Hourly rate: $27.04 (STNC/Short‑Term, Non‑Continuing).
• Benefits:
  Bronze level benefit plan at cost of employee.
• Paid Time Off: 40 hours of sick leave per fiscal year.
• Potential eligibility for CalPERS Retirement contingent upon hours worked.

The Mendocino‑Lake Community College District is committed to employing qualified staff who are dedicated to student success and who come from diverse backgrounds. The district strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students.

Mendocino College is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of qualified applicants. The policy of the College encourages applications from all persons and prohibits discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, religious affiliation, marital status, veteran status, age, gender, or pregnancy.

Persons with disabilities requiring reasonable accommodation must notify Human Resources no later than 72 hours prior to the closing date. Human Resources: (707) 468‑3065 or HR Recruiting.