Job Category: Exempt

PCLS: 30491

Salary Grade: H

Summary

Incumbents in the Lab Manager series oversee the daily operations, management, and staffing of a laboratory assigned to a specific department. Incumbents ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of the laboratory and the safe use and maintenance of equipment and facilities.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Lab Manager Senior is distinguished from the Lab Manager in that incumbents in the senior level perform duties in a larger department or college, in a lab with broader research implications and/or contribute to research published in professional publications.

Reporting and Supervisory Responsibilities

The Lab Manager Senior reports to a faculty member, Director, or Dean.  This classification may train and guide student and/or part-time employees.

Typical Functions

1. Oversees and manages the day-to-day technical, educational, and research support activities conducted in the laboratory; resolves problems and issues as they arise.
2. Researches and recommends purchases; locates parts, supplies, and research materials for the maintenance of the facility and for students and faculty using the facility.
3. Develops and conducts orientations for students and faculty on the proper use of equipment, materials, and supplies.
4. Responsible for the training and enforcement of safety and security standards.
5. May conduct training workshops on new technology specific to the lab.
6. Performs preventive maintenance and repair on laboratory equipment; ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment, materials, and supplies; performs periodic safety checks.
7. Investigates emerging technologies and makes recommendations in support of teaching and learning initiatives; keeps abreast of technical developments in the field as they relate to the curriculum, technical processes, and materials and equipment including computer hardware and software.
8. Supervises student and/or part-time employees, which includes work allocation, training, and problem resolution; evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions.
9. Establishes and maintains policies regarding safe use of the facilities.
10. Writes, develops, and publishes for websites and other social media and/or publications as requested.
11. May contribute to research published in professional publications.
12. Maintains accurate records and databases.
13. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Knowledge of applicable legislation, standards, policies and procedures within specialty area.
2. Ability to analyze supplies costs and develop cost-effective procedures.
3. Skilled in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.
4. Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical personnel.
5. Ability to calibrate, maintain, modify and/or repair laboratory equipment.
6. Ability to develop appropriate safety policies for the facility/equipment users.
7. Ability to analyze complex information, and to define and solve problems.
8. Ability to read, understand, follow and enforce safety procedures specified by equipment/supply manufacturers.
9. Ability to analyze and solve problems.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree plus two years of experience or PhD is required.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

This position requires moderate physical activity, including the handling of average weight objects up to 25 pounds and/or standing or walking more than four hours per day.  Employees are exposed to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.  The work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.

Disclaimer

This position description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the position.