Physical Sciences Instructional Laboratory Assistant Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, perform specialized and technical duties to assist in the operation and maintenance of a physical sciences instructional laboratory. (According to TOP Code 19, Physical Sciences include: Physical Science, Physics/Astronomy, Chemistry, Earth Science, Geology, and Oceanography) Representative DutiesE = indicates essential duties of the position Assist in the operation and maintenance of a physical sciences instructional laboratory; perform specialized and technical duties to assure efficient lab operations; set up laboratory and equipment for instructors. (E) Assist teachers and students in the use of a variety of equipment, materials and supplies in the instructional setting: provide assistance to students as appropriate, assigned or according to established procedures. (E) Prepare instructional materials and equipment for teacher demonstrations and student use as requested, according to approved procedures, prepare lab handouts related to experiments; assist instructors with proctoring tests. (E) Maintain a physical sciences laboratory environment in a safe, clean and orderly condition; mix and apply cleaning chemical applications as required; maintain related safety, accident and incident records as required. (E) Order, receive and store supplies, materials and equipment; maintain inventories, to assure appropriate quantities are available for instructional use. (E) Adjust, maintain, calibrate and perform minor repair to equipment; report major repair needs or arrange for repairs according to established procedures. (E) Prepare and maintain various records and reports related to laboratory operations and activities as required research and obtain new experiments for laboratory use. (E) Assist in the coordination of the use of physics lab facilities to assure the availability of appropriate supplies and equipment. Operate a variety of equipment related to any of the physical sciences lab, including electronic testing equipment, lab experimental equipment, copier and a computer. Perform related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Any combination equivalent to: Associate's degree in any of the physical sciences (per TOP Code 19), or engineering; and two years practical experience in any physical science field.
Other Information: Knowledge of:
- Principles, practices, procedures and equipment of assigned physical sciences instructional lab.
- Safety regulations involving area of specialty.
- Basic record-keeping techniques.
- Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
- Advanced mathematics.
- District organization, operations, policies and objectives.
- Technical aspects of physics.
- Basic computer operation.
- Oral and written communication skills.
- Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
- Proper methods of storing equipment, materials and supplies.
- Ability to:
- Perform specialized and technical duties to assure efficient physical sciences lab operation.
- Provide information and assistance to students and staff.
- Assure the care and security of assigned equipment, materials and supplies.
- Maintain physical sciences laboratory equipment in proper working order.
- Apply advanced mathematical problem-solving.
- Plan and organize work.
- Operate a computer terminal and related software applications.
- Understand and follow oral and written directions.
- Work independently with little direction.
- Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
- Meet schedules and time lines.
- Work direction, lead and supervisory responsibilities: Not applicable – no permanent full-time staff to supervise.
- Contacts: Instructors, student worker, students, vendors, other departmental personnel.
Work environment:
Physical sciences lab environment. Physical effort: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment. Carrying, pushing or pulling lab equipment. Walking and standing for extended periods of time.
