Perform laboratory and investigative work in support of research in physical, chemical, biological, biochemical and/or biomedical sciences. Perform technical procedures such as chemical, physical or biological analysis of organic or inorganic material or conduct biomedical tests in a research setting. Collect, verify and record data; compile information in support of research. Apply knowledge and skills applicable to an assigned technical discipline.

Perform technical procedures and operate analytical instruments in support of investigative procedures in a scientific research setting.

First-level class of the series. Under general supervision, follow established research protocol to perform investigative procedures; operate analytical instruments; record, compile and verify the accuracy of research data; perform calculations; prepare charts, graphs and summaries.

Perform technical procedures such as electrophoresis, chromatography, autorediography and/or assays; assist in animal surgery; prepare materials for microscopic examination; and maintain bacterial and/or tissue cultures;

Operate instruments and equipment such as spectrometers, liquid chromatographs, radiation counters, centrifuges, fluorocolorimeters, coulter counters, infusion-withdrawal pumps, glucose analyzers, incubators, ultrasound or x-ray equipment, electroencephalograph, electrocardiograph, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, light, polarizing and electron microscopes, balances;

Collect, record and verify accuracy of data; organize data; perform calculations; prepare charts, graphs and reports;

Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions;

Prepare laboratory reagents, chemicals, instruments, and equipment;

Service and maintain laboratory instruments;

Order chemicals, reagents and other supplies;

Operate ancillary equipment such as photographic equipment, computer equipment and electronic recording devices;

May recruit human subjects, exercise operational responsibility to maintain adherence by participants to research protocols, obtain, prepare and process specimens from human subjects;

May maintain insects, plants and/or animals for experimental purposes;

May demonstrate and explain various laboratory techniques to laboratory personnel, students, and others;

May direct the work of laboratory technicians, students and others;

Perform related duties as required.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Two years experience as a laboratory technician, research aide, or equivalent; OR a Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field of science or technology.

The announcement of position vacancy (recruiting bulletin) may specify course work or experience within a specific discipline if determined necessary by the personnel officer. Training or experience within a specific discipline will be required to meet the unique requirements of individual positions.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

New Class: 12-14-73
Revise Class: 4-20-87
Revise minimum qualifications effective 7-2-90
New class code, formerly 4859, effective July 1, 2007.
Revised desirable qualifications, housekeeping; May 26, 2010.