Electron Microscope Tech -Geosciences, Project

Electron Microscope Technician 3, Project

Institution
:
Eastern Washington University (EWU) College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (CSTEM)

Salary
: $30,678 – $34,698 per year

Position
:
Half‑time, 20 hours per week, 2 years 8 months (project funded by an NSF grant)

Location
:
Cheney Campus, Washington

Anticipated Start Date
:
January 16, 2026

EWU is seeking an Electron Microscope Technician 3, Project to support our new electron microscopy lab. Applicants will provide technical support for research, education, and outreach activities, including training new users, sample preparation, electron microscopy analysis, inventory tracking, and instrument maintenance.

• Perform special procedures such as basic sample preparation, sample coating, and scanning electron microscopy
• Provide technical consultation to faculty and investigators with diagnostic problems or research projects involving the use of the electron microscopy laboratory
• Instruct and direct work operations; oversee the operation of training and maintenance of an electron microscope; make minor repairs and determine service needs
• Develop and implement new procedures; conduct literature searches and adapt techniques to specific research needs
• Maintain workload recording system; purchase and maintain laboratory equipment such as consumables, balances, and sample preparation equipment; track inventory levels and place replenishment orders
• Instruct faculty, technicians, students or student workers in laboratory procedures
• Interact with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator
• Provide operational guidance to users on day‑to‑day activities
• Assist with preparation of instrument use reports
• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise student workers if applicable
• Possibility of teaching as a lecturer in the candidate’s discipline

• Bachelor’s degree in a science‑related field (chemistry, biology, geology, natural sciences, or related sciences) and two years of experience in an electron microscopy laboratory – or equivalent education/work experience
• Demonstrated ability to apply a responsive and flexible approach that is supportive of the needs of students, faculty, staff, and the public

• B.S. or M.S. in biology, chemistry, geosciences, physics, environmental science, engineering, or a related field
• Experience working in a research laboratory
• Previous experience using transmission and/or scanning electron microscopy
• Experience working within an electron microscopy‑related laboratory
• Teaching/training experience

• Excellent interpersonal skills and a desire to work in a service‑oriented environment
• Strong computer and record‑keeping skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Flexibility and willingness to learn new technologies
• Ability to work independently (with minimal guidance) and as a team member
• Ability to manage time efficiently and complete tasks on time
• Ability to be on time for scheduled appointments and adapt to unscheduled requests

Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement plans, vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays, a personal leave day, tuition waivers for employees and eligible family members, discounted university sports tickets, full access to campus workout facilities, and free transportation on STA buses.

Apply before the recruitment closes at midnight on Friday, December 26, 2025. Screening of applications will begin December 5, 2025. All materials will be held in strictest confidence.

EWU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability.