Job Information
University of Utah Lab Specialist in Salt Lake City, Utah
Details
Open Date 03/18/2024
Requisition Number PRN38004B
Job Title Lab Specialist
Working Title Lab Specialist
Job Grade D
FLSA Code Nonexempt
Patient Sensitive Job Code? No
Standard Hours per Week 30-40
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift Day
Work Schedule Summary
Arranged with Supervisor
VP Area U of U Health - Academics
Department 01709 - CCTS - PRECISION MEDICINE
Location Campus
City Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment External Posting
Pay Rate Range 15.19 to 24.34
Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Job Summary
The Cellular Translational Research Core ( CTRC ) is seeking someone like you who is organized to manage our expanding collection of cryopreserved biospecimens. This role entails overseeing the storage, transportation, and shipping of biospecimens, as well as updating database information in OpenSpecimen, our laboratory information management system ( LIMS ). Additionally, 15% of your effort will involve mapping stem cell lines into our biobank within the Stem Cell Facility. While training in other Stem Cell Facility roles is possible, it depends on your experience level and motivation. Occasionally, you may need to assist in preparing or processing samples in the laboratory. Willingness to contribute in this setting will be of great value.
This position presents a significant challenge given the sheer number of samples (>100,000), yet it offers a uniquely stimulating opportunity. You must demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility, and understanding of the priceless nature of many biospecimens, which are historical and irreplaceable. Extreme caution and meticulous attention to preservation are paramount; any loss or compromise of samples is irreversible.
The autonomy of this role may be appealing if you prefer independence over micromanagement. Following approximately one month of training, your responsibilities should become routine, allowing you to fully grasp your role and execute tasks effectively. We expect you to exhibit a proactive approach, developing ownership of the project and driving it forward.
This position offers stable, continuous employment, making it an ideal opportunity if you are seeking consistent work for a year or more. This can be a 0.75FTE -1.00FTE position, If you possess the necessary qualifications, are enthusiastic about laboratory work, and thrive in an independent environment, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dynamic and rewarding team.
Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Must work independently with minimal supervision.
Assist in mapping stem cell lines into the LIMS system, OpenSpecimen.
Manage the storage, transportation, and shipping of cryopreserved biospecimens.
Ensure strict adherence to preservation protocols to safeguard biospecimens while adeptly handling precious and irreplaceable samples without compromising their integrity.
Have basic bench and molecular biology skills to help prep and process samples.
Must be able to pick up somewhat heavy freezer towers (25 lbs) and be able to move and manipulate LN2 supply tanks (> 100 lbs) with proper handling tools and transport equipment.
Be familiar with the safe handling of liquid nitrogen and other cryopreservation hazards
Have competent computer skills and have basic knowledge using sample tracking software.
Must have skilled hands, be technically precise, and be meticulous when handling frozen samples.
A high level of quality control is important. Proper labeling, sample identification, and tracking need to be maintained at 100%.
Performs tests and procedures using sophisticated laboratory equipment.
Identify key protocols, follow or modify them if necessary, and apply these methods to meet our lab’s specific needs.
Because our core facility interacts closely with a large number of investigators, professionalism and excellent customer service are expected.
Having a good understanding of research ethics is important
.Direct interaction with customers is minimal. However, when necessary, it is required that this technician can listen and communicate with customers in a friendly, knowledgeable, accurate, and timely manner.
Other duties assigned.
Problem-Solving
This position assists senior laboratory personnel in method and technique planning, necessitating independent judgment and basic theoretical knowledge of the relevant science. It may involve supervising entry-level laboratory personnel, who may refer sensitive or unusual situations to the incumbent. Unresolved issues are referred to the supervisor.
Disclaimer
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted.
Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:
Nearly Continuously: Office environment.
Often: Infectious disease, oils ( there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids ), hazards ( includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals ).
Seldom: Exposure to animals.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly continuously: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), sitting.
Often: Walking, standing, bending, reaching overhead, lifting boxes, moving heavy racks, and supply cryo tanks.
Seldom: Hearing, listening, talking.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry or other scientific discipline or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); two years full-time laboratory experience; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills required. Working knowledge of advanced scientific techniques and procedures as well as the ability to make statistical calculations, analyze results, prepare reports and perform specialized tests also required.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences
A degree in Biology, Chemistry, or other scientific discipline or equivalency is desirable; Prior laboratory bench work and culture work with human cell lines is also desirable.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Type Benefited Staff
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.
All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action ( OEO /AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/
Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu
https://safety.utah.edu/safetyreport This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.