Analytical Lab Services Specialist - Waterloo, Canada - University of Waterloo

University of Waterloo

Verified Company

Waterloo, Canada

2 weeks ago

Posted by:

Sophia Lee

beBee Recruiter

Description

Overview:

This position is responsible for the provision of analytical services to support research in the Department of Chemical Engineering, including funded external research interests.

The incumbent is required to maintain the Chemical Engineering Analytical Services Laboratories and all aspects of their operations.

Responsibilities:

Analytical Instrumentation

Be proficient in the use of analytical equipment and sample preparation. Possess a working knowledge of the associated limitations and operating parameters for each analytical technique
Operate, calibrate, maintain, and service analytical instruments
Prepare and handle standard solutions, calibration standards, and cleaning solutions
Instruct researchers and students in the proper use of existing analytical instrumentation, including quality control protocols
Provide analytical services for, and collaborate with, researchers across campus as well as clients from outside the university
Keep the laboratory space clean and organized with the appropriate handling and disposal techniques, including the disposal of hazardous materials
Expand and/or update knowledge and expertise by attending company, supplier and/or manufacturer training programs concerning analytical instruments or methods of analyses, with special emphasis on new devices and techniques
Provide seminars regarding analytical chemistry and instrumental analysis, upon request of the Laboratory Director, Research and Special Projects

Administration

Maintain the department's shared analytical laboratories and all aspects of their functioning, including usage, scheduling, and all related charges
Process users' requests for analysis and communicate results
Source and order laboratory supplies
Establish and maintain liaison with sales representatives and technical support
Assist in the supervision of casual coop students

Safety

Maintain first aid kit, spill kit, posted safety procedures including WHMIS, hazardous waste disposal etc. in the analytical lab
Prepare and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in the analytical lab
Conduct regular safety inspections in the analytical lab, including the enforcement of safety requirements for lab users
Prepare and maintain chemical inventory in accordance with UW and legislative requirements in the analytical lab
In collaboration with the Laboratory Director, Research and Special Projects, provide laboratory and chemical safety information for researchers and maintaining communication between the department and the UW Safety Office
Assist with the regular safety inspections of all ChE laboratories and advise researchers of safety issues identified
Assist with other safety related activities in the department, as assigned by the Laboratory Director, Research and Special Projects

Other duties

Serve as a technical resource person for faculty, researchers, and students in the development of their research projects
Provide support and advice in the maintenance and servicing of existing analytical instrumentation department wide
Serve as a support person in other areas of department operations as required on an occasional and shortterm basis as assigned by the Laboratory Director, Research and Special Projects

Qualifications:

A master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry, along with the capability and desire to participate in a continuous learning environment. A PhD degree is an asset
A minimum of three years of analytical lab equipment use and maintenance experience, with specific emphasis on developing a clientfocussed and "Safety First" culture
Experience trouble shooting and working with scientific equipment is an asset. Requires a sound understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of analytical methods
Knowledge of analytical laboratory practices and equipment functionality, specifically GC and HPLC (required), as well as IC, ICP, TGA, DSC, XRD, SEM, AFM, BET (preferred)
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fastpaced environment is essential
Excellent written and oral communication skills required
Basic skill level with Microsoft Office Suite
Most of the time is spent in a laboratory environment, where the possibility for exposure to toxic and/or reactive chemicals exists

Equity Statement:
The University of Waterloo is committed to implementing the Calls to Action framed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We acknowledge that we live and work on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples.

The University of Waterloo is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River.