COS Laboratory Technical Support Instruction Assistant I

Rochester Institute of Technology•Rochester, NY

3d•$20 - $31•Hybrid

About The Position

The Microbial Ecology and Genomics in Amphibians Lab at Rochester Institute of Technology seeks a highly organized, responsible, and proactive lab manager to oversee day-to-day operations, support research initiatives, and help foster a supportive, collaborative laboratory environment. The position manages supplies and schedules, supports student researchers, and facilitates communication within the lab. Prior lab management or research experience is ideal; the role emphasizes learning quickly, taking initiative, and handling administrative tasks with attention to detail. The role provides technical guidance to students, faculty, and researchers in planning and conducting research. It supports laboratory and field equipment, prepares experimental materials, promotes safety and regulatory compliance, and maintains research documentation and records. It also includes administrative coordination of schedules, resources, inventory, and research and teaching activities. Public outreach and management of the lab's digital presence are optional but preferred responsibilities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field.
Two years of relevant experience; an equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered.
Knowledge of laboratory practices, procedures, and operations.
Knowledge of standards, regulations, and protocols for proper handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials, chemicals, and waste.
Ability to set up, calibrate, troubleshoot, or instruct others in the use of laboratory equipment and instruments.
Time management, organization, and multitasking skills in high-volume environments.
Ability to maintain detailed, thorough, and accessible records of research activities.
Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working in a laboratory management or research position.
Leadership and mentorship abilities.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Ability to learn new skills quickly, take initiative, and handle administrative tasks with high attention to detail.
Interest or experience in science communication, educational workshops, public outreach, and managing lab social media or website content.

Responsibilities

Manage laboratory purchasing, track orders, and maintain inventory of reagents and consumables.
Oversee shared-equipment schedules and manage shift or workstation rosters for lab personnel.
Ensure lab members comply with RIT Environmental Health & Safety guidelines, biosafety protocols, and institutional animal care guidelines.
Manage routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation and field gear.
Train and mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers in laboratory safety, standard operating procedures, and professional conduct.
Foster an inclusive, supportive, collaborative team culture.
Help delegate and monitor routine lab tasks to support accountability and project deadlines.
Maintain and update protocol documentation, lab manuals, and centralized digital records.
Communicate with park managers and assist with regulatory permit applications and renewals.
Assist in organizing genomic, microbial, and ecological records using established digital infrastructure.
Optionally assist with science communication events, educational workshops, and public outreach programs.
Optionally manage lab social media accounts and update the lab website with publications, research milestones, and team accomplishments.
Provide technical guidance and support to students, faculty, and researchers in the design, planning, and execution of research activities.
Aid in fabricating, prototyping, and testing experimental materials, models, and devices.
Set up, calibrate, maintain, and perform minor repairs on laboratory equipment, instruments, and tools.
Prepare and standardize chemical and biological samples or other materials for experiments.
Monitor laboratory operations and procedures to promote a safe working environment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
Enforce proper handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials, chemicals, and waste.
Perform administrative duties related to lab scheduling, resource management, inventory tracking, and record-keeping for research and teaching activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.