"Research Technologist 2"

Job ID52104

Location

Evanston, Illinois

Department: WCAS Chemistry

Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Target Hiring Range: $19.89 - $27.97 per hour ($38,934 - $54,751 per year), depending on experience, education, and skills.

Job Summary:

The Research Technologist 2 position in the Chemistry Department is a full-time role focused on providing material support for undergraduate and SPS chemistry teaching laboratories. This includes lab maintenance, supply ordering, reagent preparation, lab setup for experiments, and waste disposal. The position also involves supervising student workers and providing support for summer programs and outreach events. The job will require on-site presence during a standard five-day workweek, with evening hours expected during academic terms.

Specific Responsibilities:

Laboratory Support:

• Design, set up, and conduct basic experiments according to established protocols.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments.
• Prepare chemical solutions, weigh samples, perform titrations, and other standard tests.
• Ensure laboratories are clean and organized, including cleaning glassware and maintaining a stock of necessary reagents and solutions.
• Maintain strict adherence to laboratory safety guidelines and quality assurance principles.

Administrative Tasks:

• Maintain detailed, organized records related to lab activities.
• Track lab expenses, verify the accuracy of invoices, and manage inventory of lab supplies.

Finance:

• Track lab supply expenses and verify invoices.
• Order and maintain inventory of reagents and laboratory supplies.

Supervision:

• Supervise and train student workers, delegating tasks as needed.

Miscellaneous:

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Undergraduate Program Administrator or other faculty/staff.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: BS in a basic science (such as chemistry, biology, etc.) or 2 years of practical lab/bench experience.
• Lab Safety Knowledge: Understanding of laboratory and chemical safety principles, including familiarity with US CFR 1910.1450 and NFPA codes.

Minimum Competencies (Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities):

• Demonstrated laboratory experience, with the ability to follow detailed research protocols.
• Proficiency in computer programs, including spreadsheets and basic calculations (Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel).
• Attention to detail and accurate record-keeping.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Good manual dexterity and physical ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A degree in Chemistry or another science strongly preferred.
• Experience with NU chemical management systems.
• Three to five years of relevant experience in a research laboratory or science department at a higher education institution.

Preferred Competencies (Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities):

• Understanding of basic chemical principles, stoichiometry, and laboratory safety.
• Ability to assess hazard identification and apply safety protocols.
• Chemistry analytical skills, including the ability to calculate concentrations, perform titrations, and weigh samples accurately.
• Ability to learn new techniques and demonstrate analytical thinking in a research environment.
• Strong communication skills for both verbal and written reports.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work safely in a chemistry laboratory.
• Ability to record data clearly and write reports or letters.
• Visual and auditory acuity to operate office and laboratory equipment.

Benefits:

Northwestern University offers competitive benefits, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement benefits, including matching contributions.
• Tuition discounts and paid time off.
• Work-life balance programs, including childcare and senior care assistance.

For more details, visit Northwestern HR Benefits.

Work-Life and Wellness:

Northwestern supports work-life balance, offering flexible work arrangements and programs for navigating life's challenges. Visit Work-Life at Northwestern for more information.

Professional Growth & Development:

Northwestern provides resources for professional development, including educational tools and career advancement opportunities. For more details, visit Northwestern Learning Resources.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate based on protected characteristics such as disability, veteran status, race, or gender. Applicants who require accommodations during the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance.

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