Saddleback College

Laboratory Assistant, Part-time (One or more positons) 

Astronomy Department

Job Close Date: 02/20/2017

PLEASE NOTE: In order to be considered for this opening, you must apply through the District website at https://jobs.socccd.edu

Summary Description:

The current position will work in the Astronomy Department at Saddleback College.

Under general supervision from administrative or academic staff, assists in the preparation of materials and demonstrations for an assigned instructional area; ensures adequate inventory of supplies and materials is maintained; ensures lab equipment is maintained; may provide limited and routine assistance to students within the assigned subject area; and maintains the general cleanliness of the assigned laboratory.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

Positions in the Lab Assistant class are distinguished from the Lab Technician by the depth of subject knowledge required and the level of responsibility assumed. In comparison to the Lab Technician, positions at this level work under closer supervision and perform more routine functions requiring less knowledge of the subject area. Lab Assistant positions may have a basic understanding of the functional use of specialized equipment but are not required to demonstrate the use or troubleshoot major problems. Incumbents in this class will learn to use specialized lab equipment over time and are expected to be able to operate and perform routine demonstrations and troubleshooting by the end of the probationary period. Employees at this level should have some related experience and are expected to become fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Representative Duties:

The 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. Please see Job Duties for details.

Knowledge of:

• Basic principles and practices of laboratory operations.

• Basic operational characteristics of laboratory apparatus, equipment, and materials pertaining to assigned laboratory and subject area.

• Proper methods of storing equipment, materials, and supplies used within the assigned laboratory.

• Principles and procedures of record keeping and filing.

• Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.

• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Ability to:

• Understand and follow directions.

• Learn and apply department policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.

• Learn to operate a variety of specialized equipment.

• Learn the use of supplies and materials specific to the subject area.

• Assist in the preparation of instructional materials and demonstrations for an assigned subject area.

• Correctly and efficiently set up laboratory equipment and materials used in exercises and experiments.

• Properly store materials.

• Understand the basic mechanical function of and perform routine maintenance and repairs on laboratory equipment within assigned area.

• Maintain the cleanliness of assigned laboratory.

• Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures.

• Effectively monitor and maintain an adequate inventory of materials for instructional programs.

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience Guidelines:

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

Education/Training:

Some college level course work or other technical training in a field related to area of assignment and that provides exposure to a lab environment is highly desirable.

Experience:

One year of experience working in a related field is highly desirable.

To Apply:

Please visit the District’s Employment Opportunities website at https://jobs.socccd.edu for a detailed job description, to learn more about the District and to complete an on-line application.  

NOTICE TO ALL CANDIDATES FOR EMPLOYMENT: The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Public Law 99-603, requires that employers obtain documentation from every new employee which authorizes that individual to accept employment in this country.  

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER