Job Summary

The Department of Chemistry is looking for a part-time SEM Manager to manage and maintain the Scanning Electron Microscope. This position is responsible for a facility that serves a diverse group of researchers across the department.

The SEM Manager will oversee instrument operation and maintenance, provide expert technical guidance and training, and partner with faculty, staff, and students. The ideal candidate will combine strong technical expertise with excellent communication and organizational skills.

Duties include:

• Maintenance of SEM/EDS and sputter coater, which includes replacing nitrogen tanks, refilling consumables (gloves, paper towels, Kimwipes etc.), cleaning and replacing water filters, and maintaining the SEM vacuum pumps.
• Training and authorizing new users
• Maintaining an up-to-date SEM user list and communicating with SEM users when issues arise
• Troubleshooting for users (technical, software, advice for measurement conditions, advice for sample preparation)
• Diagnosing problems and coordinating technical services
• Managing and coordinating service contracts
• Purchasing new equipment, parts, accessories, and service contracts related to the SEM/EDS system and the sputter coater.
• Helping users obtain high-quality data (including technical support, software assistance, advice on measurement conditions, and guidance on sample preparation).
• Submission of monthly statements of user hours/fees to department administration so that the department can use this information to charge user groups.
• Monthly billing

Key Job Responsibilities

• Assembles data and/or provides input for reports of design status and/or technical research for professional organizations, government/sponsors review boards, and/or design reviews
• Designs, plans, and performs preventative and reactive maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal and safe operation
• Assists with the preparation of grant proposals and applicable documentation
• Supports project planning and coordination
• Supports troubleshooting efforts to define and resolve problems
• Answers questions and provides technical information regarding instrumentation to staff, researchers, clients, and students
• Investigates new research processes and technology solutions in collaboration with research/clinical staff, students, and clients
• Leads the operations and/or management of a facility
• Develops, integrates, tests, modifies, and may design sophisticated scientific equipment to support research/clinical initiatives and unit directives
• Provides technical expertise to staff, researchers, clients, and students in the installation and use of equipment and instruments, exercising discretion and independent judgment to meet unit goals
• Facilitates the billing process