Job Description

JOB DUTIES:
50% - Essential - Prepare the samples for elemental analysis (carbon and nitrogen), and lead the operation and maintenance of LECO 828 analyzer. These includes, grinding and sieving, weighing the samples as needed, and analyzing them on them instrument and generating resorts of analysis.
Maintenance of the LECO 828 analyzer required for the normal operations including troubleshooting and performing manufacturer-permitted repairs.

30% - Essential - Prepare plant and soil samples for molecular analysis using mass spectrometers coupled to gas and liquid chromarographs, including sample extractions, cleanup and concentrations as per established protocols. Semi-independent operation of the chromatography-mass spectrometry instruments.

10% - Essential - Assist the lead Field Technician with filed deployment of multi-chamber LI-COR system and smart chambers for GHG emission measurements, suction lysimeters for collection of soil leachates, and participate in filed sampling of soils and plants.

10% - Essential - Data analysis, preparation of reports and presentations as required by the projects. Assistance with routine operations of the lab, greenhouse, instrumentation, and related projects as required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education - Bachelor's Degree - chemistry; or a bachelor's degree in the natural sciences with academic credits in chemistry, plus work experience in a setting related to the area of employment.
Work Experience - 2+ years independent lab experience in operating and maintaining analytical instruments including elemental analyzers, chromatography instruments, or mass spectrometers.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
Education - 1st Master's Degree - Ecology, Soil Science, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines, with field research experience.
Licenses - Drivers License Class D normal < 26,000 and demonstrated ability to safely operate a light-duty pickup (Ford F-150 or similar) while towing a small cargo trailer (e.g., 7×14 tandem-axle), including basic hitching/unhitching and maneuvering.

RESPONSIBILITIES
JOB KNOWLEDGE
Comprehensive Job Knowledge - Comprehensive knowledge of theories and practices and ability to use in complex, difficult and/or unprecedented situations

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervises Work of Others - Supervises work of others and may offer recommendations for hiring, termination and pay adjustments but does not have responsibility for making these decisions.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES
No Budget Responsibilities - No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
100% - Stand for prolonged period
100% - Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period
100% - Walk or move about
100% - Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc
100% - Ascend or descend (i.e. stairs, ladder)
100% - Position self to accomplish task (i.e. stoop, kneel, crawl)
100% - Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself
100% - Recognize or inspect visually
100% - Move, transport, raise or lower
100% - Extends hands or arms in any direction
100% - Perceive, observe, clarity of vision