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

Mendocino-Lake Community College District is accepting applications for a Short‑Term, Non‑Continuing Laboratory Technician – Biology/Chemistry at our Coast Center Location in Fort Bragg. This temporary, non‑continuing position is open until filled.

• Prepare chemistry and biology labs for instructional and demonstration activities; prioritize tasks; set up solutions, media, live specimens (including pathogens) and supplies; research some media and reagents and make from scratch; prepare and set up lab equipment.
• Organize lab times; ensure critical lead time for labs; troubleshoot experiments that fail during the process or through student errors; research new adopted experiments as directed.
• Maintain laboratory supplies, materials, and equipment in a safe and orderly condition; clean the lab after use; store glassware, equipment, and other materials; check that eye washes, safety showers, fume hoods, first aid kits, and fire blankets are operational as required.
• Complete periodic inventory of supplies and chemicals; allocate priority to supplies needed; initiate requisitions for the purchase of supplies and equipment and submit to appropriate personnel for signature and approval.
• Communicate with vendors and sales representatives; make cost comparisons and obtain technical information regarding equipment and instruments being considered for purchase; maintain budget records and petty cash.
• Properly receive, store, and dispense supplies and equipment, including hazardous chemicals and pathogens; store pure cultures for months; sterilize bacterial cultures; collect, store, and dispose of hazardous wastes off site.
• Ensure safety in the labs; explain labeling and safety procedures; maintain current knowledge of proper handling of chemicals and keep safety data files current; oversee proper handling of chemicals, pathogens, and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Operate a variety of biology and chemistry‑related equipment; maintain and perform minor repairs on instruments such as microscopes, stereoscopes, Mettler balances, spectrophotometers, gas chromatographs, pH meters, etc.
• Issue and check student drawers for cleanliness; restock as necessary.
• Serve as a resource for part‑time instructors in the use of facilities, equipment, instruments, and supplies, including safety regulations.
• Communicate with inspectors and safety officers; explain the layout of facilities; inspect classrooms and chemical storage facilities.
• Attend meetings and workshops as directed.
• Perform related duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Biology/chemistry theories related to the courses offered.
• Safe receiving, handling, and storage of hazardous chemicals and pathogens.
• Proper operation and set up of lab equipment.
• Safety procedures for a biology and chemistry lab.
• Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct.
• Basic instructional methods and techniques.
• Basic record‑keeping techniques.
• 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 curriculum, goals, and objectives of the program.
• Organize and monitor critical lead times for labs.
• Maintain laboratory and equipment in safe operating condition pursuant to safety regulations for hazardous chemicals and pathogens.
• 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 operation of the program.
• Maintain current knowledge of technological advances in the field.

Physical demands include reaching, bending, walking, moderate lifting (up to 50 lbs), standing for long periods, and the ability to handle and preserve live animals including a human cadaver.

• Bronze level benefit plan at the cost of the employee.
• Paid Time Off: 40 hours of sick leave per fiscal year.
• Retirement:
  May be eligible for CalPERS Retirement contingent upon number of hours worked within the fiscal year.

Mendocino College is an equal‑opportunity employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of qualified applicants. The policy of the College is to encourage applications from all persons. Mendocino College does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity or race, color, sex or gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, medical conditions, or genetic conditions, pregnancy or related conditions, or military or veteran status.

The College also prohibits harassment on any of these bases, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.