General Chemistry Lab Manager, Dept. of Chemistry

University of Saskatchewan•Saskatoon, SK

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and supervising the first year Chemistry labs in accordance with course and program objectives. This role reports to the Head, Department of Chemistry. The position requires leadership skills, independence, teamwork, problem-solving, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure with competing deadlines. The role also involves managing confidential student information and has a significant impact on student experience and recruitment. The Laboratory Manager collaborates with the Laboratory Coordinator and supervises approximately 45 student teaching assistants.

Requirements

A minimum of 3 years of experience relevant to managing an undergraduate chemistry laboratory.
Effective leadership, decision making, organization and project management skills.
Strong interpersonal skills, such as an ability to work creatively, collaboratively, and effectively with diverse teams.
Excellent communication skills appropriate to the audience (student, etc.) and form of communication (email, oral, instructional material, etc.).
The ability to work with minimal supervision, and the judgement to seek advice and direction when necessary.
Discretion and judgement in handling confidential student information.
Strong computer skills including proficiency with word processing and spreadsheets.
Familiar with learning management systems, student information systems and website content management systems.
Solid background in chemistry and familiarity with common and emerging techniques in chemistry laboratory instruction.
Ability to implement and reflect on effective teaching and learning strategies.
Familiarity with a wide variety of instruments is essential to the position.

Nice To Haves

A graduate degree in chemistry or chemistry education (PhD degree preferred).
Evidence of professional development and reflective practice in teaching and learning is preferred.
An ideal candidate will show evidence of implementing and reflecting on effective teaching and learning strategies.

Responsibilities

Select, supervise, train, and evaluate laboratory TAs with the quality of instruction in the chemistry laboratories given highest priority.
Develop professional and collaborative relationships with members of the laboratory teaching staff, with faculty and staff within the Department, College and non-University groups or organizations.
Develop, deliver, and continuously improve chemistry lab programs consistent with course and program goals, and with University and College academic policies.
Prepare, develop, and deliver teaching materials that are consistent with course and program objectives and are completed in a timely manner. These include lab schedules, TA manuals, marking schemes, lab manuals, quizzes, and problem session questions and solutions.
Maintain learning management systems specific to the laboratory; maintain content on laboratory-relevant webpages and maintain online homework systems.
Engage in professional development and reflective practice in teaching and learning, and implementing and reflecting on effective teaching and learning strategies.
Teach introductory chemistry or other chemistry courses as assigned.
Promote a culture of safety and ensure a safe work environment by making sure that safe chemistry lab practices are followed and that all environmental health and safety regulations are met.
Ensure appropriate on-site training for TAs and students in safety procedures and practices.
Ensure effective use of people, materials, and equipment to minimize financial expense of and risk to chemistry lab operation.
Assist with laboratory work and online class assignments through direct student interaction and through email.
Assist in the professional development of TAs by providing mentorship and support for their teaching duties.
Provide student advising and mentoring.
Prepare, maintain, and submit accurate attendance and grades records and likewise ensure these are submitted regularly by teaching assistants.
Help with lab registration, overrides and exemptions.
Participate in long-term planning of content and delivery of chemistry courses and labs in addition to service on departmental committees.
Act as a resource person in chemistry lab related matters. Such activities may include evaluating off-campus facilities, coordinating high school events, giving advice regarding laboratory renovations, and providing chemicals and access to equipment as deemed appropriate.