Laboratory Technician , Chemistry and Biochemistry

Laboratory Technician 1, Chemistry and Biochemistry

Department:
College of Arts and Sciences – Chemistry and Biochemistry

Location:

San Diego, CA
Position Status:
Full-time regular
Position Type:
Staff

• Preparation and upkeep of laboratory spaces for specified courses (Chemistry 151L, 152L, 422, 424)
  • Prepare, set out chemicals, glassware, and equipment for experiments
  • Determine supplies needed, minimizing cost and waste
  • Write or update prep sheets for each experiment
  • Train and supervise work‑study students in solution preparation and equipment setup
  • Maintain laboratory inventory and hazardous waste management
  • Keep SDS library current and ensure a safe workplace
• Purchasing support
  • Gather vendor and catalog information for necessary chemicals and supplies
  • Propose cost‑effective purchasing strategies and vendors
  • Transmit accurate ordering information to the Chemistry Budget and Purchasing Coordinator
• Assist faculty and the Director of General Chemistry
  • Develop and optimize new experiments for specified courses
  • Prepare lecture demonstrations and manage the demonstration preparation room (SCST
    131)
  • Support hazardous waste removal in faculty research labs as directed
• Safety responsibilities
  • Create forms and quizzes for student lab safety orientations
  • Train teaching assistants in Haz‑Comm and maintain training records
  • Participate in building Safety Committee meetings and conduct safety drills in assigned areas
• Other duties
  • Manage visiting groups (summer, intersession, high school) – coordinate agreements, provide materials, and conduct safety training
  • Maintain graduate and large laboratory equipment; coordinate repairs and service calls with Instrument Specialist

• Minimum qualifications
  • A bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry plus one year of laboratory experience in a related discipline (research lab experience during or after undergraduate studies, but not laboratory classes)
  • OR a post‑graduate thesis‑based degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Chemistry or Biochemistry with laboratory preparation experience preferred
• Preferred qualifications
  • Laboratory preparation experience
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal, telephone, and electronic mail)
• Performance expectations
  • Knowledge of solution preparation, titration, spectrophotometry, and safety/hazardous waste regulations
  • Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation and maintenance procedures
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Chem Draw, and department‑specific software
  • Excellent problem‑solving, prioritization, and independent judgment
  • Ability to train and supervise student workers and collaborate with colleagues and students

$22.00 – $27.00 per hour; benefits include medical, dental, vision, a retirement contribution and on‑campus fitness center access.