Research Lab Technician

Position Description

Performs highly skilled mechanical and/or analytical duties lead position in the coordination and completion of projects in a research lab or program. May supervises subordinate employees. Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all employees.

Major/Essential Functions

• Works with faculty, staff and students to coordinate work orders and repairs for the Plant Genome Research Facility (PGRF) and the Interdisciplinary Research Greenhouse (IRG) facility. Coordinates with the building occupants to identify concerns regarding the facilities and works with TTU Operations to promptly address building operational issues. Responds to issues promptly in order to prevent and resolve conflicts.
• Responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Interdisciplinary Research Greenhouse (IRG) facility; mechanical, potting machines, pesticide sprayers, irrigation system, RO water system, fertigation system, steam devitalizer and all related items.
• Lead and supervise third-party vendors for all maintenance and repair activities at the IRG and PGRF to ensure quality repairs and installations and to minimize the impacts on projects and related timelines. Communicates regularly with the Interdisciplinary Research Greenhouse Manager and keeps them apprised of all IRG facility related correspondence and updates, ensuring clear and consistent communication regarding IRG operations, maintenance or issues.
• Develop and implement a PM (preventative maintenance) schedule for the IRG related equipment. Manage testing and training of autoclaves located at the PGRF and the steam devitalizer at the IRG. Work with TTU EH&S to maintain records of usage and repairs for this equipment in accordance with State of Texas and TTU standards.
• Coordinates with Environmental Health and Safety, University Police department and other campus departments to ensure safe and productive research space in the OR&I research facilities.
• Maintains proper levels of supplies for normal building operations.
• Ensures efficient coordination of efforts between the OR&I research facilities and other units on campus.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and two years experience; or a combination of education and/or related experience to equal six years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a greenhouse setting.
• Prior experience in facility management, familiarity with the operation of multi-purpose buildings and general building construction techniques.
• Experience with the operation and maintenance of a greenhouse facility.
• Experience in Facilities Management, preferably in a higher education or research environment.
• Experience with Argus controls systems or similar controls systems.
• Licensure in technical fields such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC and refrigeration systems.
• Prior experience with research building management operations, preferably in a higher education environment. Experience working in a higher education setting.

Pay Range

$44,500 - $57,900 - $71,200