Core Research Facility Technician III

Summary

Senior Core Technicians work closely with researchers/investigators in conducting and/or developing highly technical and specialized scientific research procedures, experiments, simulations using the core facility’s specialized equipment or services; acquire data by operating the facility’s instrumentation, equipment and perform specialized service for researchers; develop and perform complex procedures and techniques; perform research tasks or data analysis consistent with the facility’s protocols; operate facility instrumentation or equipment and interpret and document results; assure fidelity to research protocols. Ability to follow oral and written instructions and plan accordingly to meet deadlines. Ability to tend to details. Ability to maintain records and inventories. Ability to operate a personal computer and proficient in MS Office. Customer service oriented with good verbal and written communication skills.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Reviews literature as directed for the purposes of furthering understanding of the core technologies.
• Assists in generating, collecting, and analyzing data.
• Develops new data analysis techniques or methodology.
• Interprets experimental data.
• Performs data analysis for researchers using specialized data analysis software in a form useful for further statistical analysis or publication.
• Provides education, training and consultation to core facility users/customers on highly specialized equipment, scientific research or technology.
• Provides advice and guidance in either a self-service or full service core facility.
• May draft methods sections of research papers related to core facility’s specialty that will be submitted for publication.
• Assists with and/or coordinate and manage equipment and facilities with users.
• Services, calibrates, and checks equipment for proper function.
• Evaluates new equipment to determine if it meets specifications.
• Develops preventative maintenance schedules and procedures. Assists with performing periodic preventative maintenance on facility instrumentation. Troubleshoots equipment failures and arrange for or help with repairs.
• Provides input on new instrument purchases.
• Remains current on emerging techniques, software programs, and instrumentation in field of expertise.
• Provides technical support in specialized area of research.
• May assist with maintenance of the facility computer systems and specialized instrument control and analysis software, facility data server, and /or researcher’s data server accounts, data backup and archiving, and online reservation system and/or researcher’s reservation accounts.
• Assists with the administrative duties necessary for a fee-for-service facility operation, i.e., fee or charge entry.
• Reviews facility billing data for accuracy and submit to manager/director for approval.
• Initiates purchases of equipment, supplies, inventory, etc. for facility.
• Analyzes facility use data for reports.
• Adheres to safety and compliance guidelines.
• May participate in hiring staff and managing staff performance to assure staff is compliant with UF policies and procedures.
• Assists in training and assessment of new staff
• Communicates with internal and external clients in a clear and professional manner
• Performs intake functions for a core facility such as receiving and logging samples or requests for services
• Process orders or requests and generate invoices, Bill of Ladings and manifests as needed
• Performs verification and validation of work processes as needed.
• Reviews facility use data for reports.
• Adheres to safety and compliance guidelines.
• Assists in cross training core staff where applicable
• Communicates with internal and external clients in a clear and professional manner
• Performs intake functions for a core facility such as receiving and logging samples or requests for services
• Process orders or requests and generate invoices, Bill of Ladings and manifests as needed
• Performs verification and validation of work processes as needed

Education and Experience

BA/BS in related scientific field required with hands-on experience in basic laboratory and scientific methods. Optionally, 4 years of experience in science related field with at least 3 years in core specific applications. Research-based experience preferred.

Licensure and Certification

Core or technology specific licensure and/or certifications where applicable. Additionally yearly certificate and compliance training if required.

Supervision

This position may have supervisory responsibility.

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.