Lab Technician

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under direction from the Division Dean and/or Art Department Chair, assists in the preparation of materials and demonstrations for an assigned instructional area; operates and demonstrates use of specialized equipment, supplies and materials; provides assistance to students within the assigned subject area; and maintains the general cleanliness of the assigned laboratory.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Positions in the Lab Technician class are distinguished from the Senior Lab Technician by the level of responsibility assumed. In comparison to the Senior Lab Technician, positions at this level are assigned to less complex labs and have limited involvement in budget activities and ordering of supplies and equipment. Employees at this level are required to be fully trained in all procedures related to assigned area of responsibility and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices:

• Assist instructors in developing instructional materials; prepare study sheets, visual instructional aides, sample exercises and exams, and laboratory experiments; may assist in grading exams and maintaining related records.
• Prepare for laboratory demonstrations; set up laboratory apparatus; assist students in the use of a variety of laboratory equipment and instruments; ensure student compliance with laboratory policies, procedures and safety precautions; demonstrate proper care and cleaning procedures for laboratory equipment.
• Provide assistance to students on a variety of laboratory and course related matters; review student work in progress and assist in resolving problems.
• Maintain a clean and safe learning environment; clean floors, table tops, desks and furniture; wash work tables and benches; empty trash receptacles; perform routine and minor repairs on laboratory equipment; maintain, clean and test assigned equipment including kilns, lathes, sanders, grinding wheels, drawing horses, easels and other equipment.
• Maintain woodshop machinery and equipment; table saws, jigsaws, etc.
• Assisting in the loading, firing and maintaining of kilns; maintain firing schedule; clean and vacuum kilns; grind down kiln shelves; apply fresh kiln wash.
• Maintenance and cleaning of jewelry, 3D and sculpture studios, patios and classrooms.
• Prepare daily supply of needed materials including clay test cylinders, plaster molds, glazes, slips and stains.
• Assist students including pouring bronze for sculptures and lifting and carrying art work.
• Participate in the ordering and maintenance of supplies, materials and equipment; store, discard and rotate materials according to standard procedures; receive, assemble and test new equipment.
• Respond to inquiries and requests for information; answer phones; relay messages for faculty and staff.
• Perform related duties as required.