POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the direct supervision of the Science Laboratory Instructor, the Laboratory Assistant provides instructional support services for faculty and students of Anatomy, Physiology or Microbiology Courses for the RN Program; assists in preparing and setting up laboratory exercises, demonstrations, instructional materials, and supplies; assists students and faculty in the use and operation of equipment and materials related to the science laboratory courses.
RESPONSIBILITY:
Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern; exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.
FUNCTIONS:
• Assists in preparing and setting up laboratory exercises, demonstrations, and instructional materials; monitors laboratory environment; organizes, arranges, stocks, and distributes materials, equipment, and supplies
• Provides instructional support services for the science laboratory courses; assists in instructional demonstrations of procedures and techniques; explains related principles, practices, procedures, methods, materials, terminology, tools, and equipment to students
• Operates, demonstrates use of, and maintains various laboratory equipment and materials, including lab solutions, live and preserved specimens, and dissecting equipment
• Prepares and sterilizes instruments and solutions
• Cleans and ensures proper storage of laboratory equipment; ensures laboratory and work areas are in clean and orderly condition
• Maintains accurate logs, reports, and records of work performed and materials and equipment used
• Monitors, orders, receives, stores, and maintains adequate inventory levels of supplies and equipment as directed
• Assists in training of student workers
• Submits work orders for maintenance and repair of equipment and facilities
• Learns and applies emerging technologies and, as necessary, to perform duties in an efficient, organized, and timely manner
• Performs other related duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS AND EDUCATION:
Knowledge of:
• Terminology, techniques, equipment, materials, principles, theories, practices, and procedures related to the Registered Nursing program.
• Basic methods and procedures for preparing course materials and laboratory exercises and demonstrations used in biological sciences courses.
• Set-up, operation, demonstration, and maintenance of various tools and equipment used in a biological sciences laboratory.
• Methods, practices, and techniques of student learning and instruction.
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.
• Record keeping principles and procedures.
• English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, students, and staff, including individuals of various ages, disabilities, various socio-economic and ethnic groups.
Skills & Abilities to:
• Learn principles, practices, procedures, methods, materials, tools, terminology, and equipment related to the Registered Nursing program
• Assist students and faculty in the use and operation of equipment and materials related to the Registered Nursing program
• Create an engaging and positive learning environment in a laboratory or other learning environments
• Learn and demonstrate proper use and maintenance of equipment, materials, and supplies used in the Registered Nursing program
• Interpret, apply, and explain applicable policies, rules, and regulations related to areas of responsibility
• Establish and maintain filing, record keeping, and tracking systems
• Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines
• Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software applications programs
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing
• Understand scope of authority in making independent decisions
• Review situations accurately and determine appropriate course of action using judgment according to established policies and procedures
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work
• Demonstrate a professional role model for students
• Demonstrate integrity and progressive self-improvement
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to an Associate's degree from a regionally accredited college in biology, anatomy and physiology or related field and one (1) year of experience working in a classroom, laboratory, or similar setting. Bachelor's Degree in Sciences preferred.