Full-Time
Laboratory Technician
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Washington and Lee University
Compensation Overview
$73.9k/yr
No H1B Sponsorship
Lynchburg, VA, USA
In Person
Category
 Biology & Biotech (4) |
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Required Skills
Biochemistry
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry required.
- A master’s degree or PhD is preferred.
- Experience working in a laboratory setting that included chemical handling and preparing solutions.
- Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory safety practices, chemical storage compatibility, and hazardous materials handling.
- Familiarity with Safety Data Sheets and chemical inventory and equipment management practices.
- Ability to maintain accurate records related to purchasing, inventory, and safety compliance.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and recurring deadlines.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to provide safety guidance and training.
- Will ingness to complete required training and certification to fulfill Chemical Hygiene
Responsibilities
- Ensures that adequate supplies of reagents, consumables, and equipment are available for all teaching laboratories.
- Assists in preparing chemical solutions for classroom demonstrations.
- Issues purchase orders for chemicals, supplies, and equipment requested by department members to support teaching and research operations.
- Maintains records for all purchase orders and communicates with suppliers to resolve discrepancies or delays.
- Oversees the maintenance and general condition of all teaching laboratories, including benchtop areas and fume hoods, to ensure they remain orderly and safe.
- Manages departmental teaching and research equipment and facilities in a cost-effective manner and within a prescribed budget.
- Verifies that all laboratory instruments under the technician’s primary responsibility remain in proper working condition.
- Supervises the setup and scheduled return of laboratory instruments and equipment needed for teaching labs.
- Coordinates with University ITS on computer maintenance, repairs, replacements, and software installations for computers in teaching, laboratory, and research spaces or attached to departmental instruments.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
- Serves as the primary resource for chemical safety as the University. Oversees and updates the institution’s Chemical Hygiene Plan to ensure compliance with OSHA Laboratory Standards and Virginia state regulations.
- Serves as the primary liaison with W&L’s Director of Environmental Health & Safety, University Facilities’ staff, and relevant regulatory agencies during inspections or incidents.
- Conducts regular laboratory safety inspections across science departments, identifies hazards, and ensures timely corrective action.
- Maintains and optimizes chemical inventory systems, including hazardous materials tracking, labeling, and disposal workflows.
- Provides safety training for faculty, staff, and students on chemical handling, personal protective equipment, waste disposal, and emergency procedures as required by the CHP.
- Oversee the University’s chemical waste program, including compliant collection, temporary storage, and coordination with licensed disposal vendors.
- Manages safety documentation including Safety Data Sheets, standard operating procedures, and emergency signage.
- Leads response efforts and documentation of chemical spills, exposures, or laboratory-related incidents. The response will include root-cause analysis and mitigation planning.
- Reviews and approves research protocols, course activities, and laboratory renovation plans for safety compliance and appropriate engineering controls.
- Maintains or improves ventilation and fume hood safety programs, including annual certification and user training.
Desired Qualifications
- Master’s degree or PhD in Chemistry or Biochemistry is preferred.