Scientific Instrument Technician

University of North Texas; Denton (TX); On-site; USD 46,800 - 57,200; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Texas is looking for a Scientific Instrument Technician for the Biological Sciences Department. This role involves managing scientific instruments, conducting repairs, and assisting in the operations of research facilities.

The candidate will have knowledge of scientific instrumentation, and be responsible for troubleshooting and maintaining complex equipment. A minimum of an associate's degree and relevant experience is required. This position offers the chance to work in a hands-on environment with a focus on safety and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of experience related to scientific instrumentation.
• Ability to work efficiently under time constraints.
• Experience with refrigeration and electronics preferred.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and maintain scientific instrumentation.
• Install new equipment and ensure proper operation.
• Assist with facility maintenance and key card coordination.

Skills

Ability to read and interpret complex drawings

Ability to design and maintain equipment

Knowledge of scientific instrumentation

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Education

Associate's degree in a related field

Tools

Common tools and power tools

Job description

Position Information

Title: Scientific Instrument Technician

Employee Classification: Scientific Instr Technician

Campus: University of North Texas

Division: UNT-Provost

SubDivision-Department: UNT-College of Science

Department: UNT-Biological Sciences-121100

Job Location: Denton

Salary: 52000.00

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility: TRS Eligible

Job Summary

The UNT Department of Biological Sciences seeks a Scientific Instrument Technician to assist in the management and operations of the Biological Sciences Department, the Institute of Applied Sciences, and the Advanced Environmental Research Institute, with focus on the research laboratory and field facilities.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate's degree in related field and three years of related experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Ability to read and interpret complex drawings, schematics and designs.
• Ability to creatively work from ideas and to draw own sketches and designs.
• Skilled with the usage of common tools and power tools.
• Ability to design, trouble-shoot and maintain complex equipment.
• Knowledge of appropriate safety and security precautions appropriate to work performed.
• Working knowledge of scientific instrumentation including electronics, refrigeration, electro-mechanical devices, fluidics systems, microscopy, high and low voltage systems, water purification, ultrahigh vacuum systems, IT, mass spectrometry, greenhouse and growth chambers.
• Strong troubleshooting, observation, time-critical task management skills and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Five years of experience installing, maintaining, and repairing scientific instruments and equipment
• Experience working in academic research laboratories and/or biomedical repair.
• Preference given to those with refrigeration, electronics, IT, and vehicle maintenance backgrounds.
• Knowledge of State of Texas and/or UNT policies and procedures
• Relevant degree or certification from a technical college/institution
• EPA 608u certification

Required Licenses / Certifications

EPA 608u certification or other listed certifications as applicable.

Job Duties

1. Troubleshoot, repair, calibrate and maintain scientific instrumentation, common equipment, and maintain scientific facilities using available documentation, manufacturer guidance, and best practices; purchase necessary repair parts.
2. Install repair parts and make all necessary adjustments and calibrations to reduce downtime and repair costs.
3. Install new equipment using manufacturer supplied documentation and instructions.
4. Assist new equipment vendors by ensuring necessary site work is completed prior to installation and arranging for assistance in off-loading of equipment when appropriate.
5. Perform needed preventive maintenance procedures to ensure proper operation, performance and safety of equipment; arrange for outside assistance when necessary.
6. Assist as a liaison with Facilities to aid in maintaining research facilities; field complaints and place work orders; support renovations when needed; assist with after-hours problems as available.
7. Assist with annual departmental equipment inventory and document missing or stolen equipment; submit inventory documentation and update asset systems as required.
8. Help researchers with proper maintenance and usage of scientific instruments and equipment.
9. Use a university P-card for instrument-related purchases as needed and maintain training for reconciliation.
10. Assist with after-hours needs of research facilities and greenhouses as needed.
11. Process departmental key and swipe card requests; coordinate lock changes and maintenance.
12. Coordinate fleet vehicle upkeep and maintenance for departmental vehicles, trailers, and boats; perform visual inspections and maintain records.
13. Drive departmental vehicles as required; ensure golf cart and other vehicles are operational; monitor battery status.
14. Record monthly mileage and coordinate with IAS staff for scheduling; may coordinate with fleet usage at additional sites.
15. Coordinate billing with IAS office staff for repairs and maintenance.

Physical Requirements

Communicating with others to exchange information; ascends/descends ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, etc.; lifts and moves objects of varying weights (up to 100 pounds or more); moves between worksites; works in tight or confined spaces; operates machinery and power tools; operates motor vehicles or heavy equipment; repetitive motions of wrists, hands and fingers.

Environmental Hazards

Elevated temperatures; exposure to fumes or airborne particles; exposure to moving parts or vibration; low temperatures; noisy environments; outdoor elements; small enclosed spaces; potential exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals.

Work Schedule

Mon–Fri, 8:00 am–5:00 pm

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. Additional references may be added after submission.

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is committed to equal opportunity and does not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or retaliation based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its employment practices, facilities, admissions processes, and related activities. System Administration investigates complaints and takes remedial action as appropriate.