Technical Assistant II

Under the direct supervision of the Business Manager, the Technical Assistant performs routine laboratory support tasks, including washing, drying, sterilizing, and organizing laboratory glassware and supplies. The role supports multiple laboratory groups by ensuring the availability of clean and sterile laboratory equipment, maintaining organized storage areas, and adhering to established safety and quality standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations and Equipment Maintenance — 90%

• Perform routine laboratory tasks, including washing, drying, and sterilizing laboratory glassware and equipment.
• Coordinate dishwashing, autoclaving, media preparation, and pipette tip processing activities.
• Assess daily workloads for dishwashing, autoclaving, media preparation, and pipette tip filling and sterilization.
• Operate industrial autoclaves, laboratory washers and dryers, and water distillation systems.
• Package and sterilize pipette tips.
• Deliver clean and sterile glassware and plasticware to designated storage locations.
• Notify the supervisor when equipment servicing or repairs are required.
• Perform routine administrative tasks, including filing and photocopying.
• Conduct weekly autoclave quality testing using two testing methods.
• Monitor, collect, and replace sharps and broken-glass collection containers.
• Maintain stock levels on storeroom shelves.
• Replenish laboratory sink supplies as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Comply with applicable environmental health and safety regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of completed work.

Solution Preparation — 10%

• Prepare stock solutions and buffers using established standard protocols.

Marginal Duties

• Collect laboratory waste and distribute supplies as needed.
• Assist with freezer defrosting and cleaning, including scraping ice from ultra-low-temperature freezers.
• Assist laboratory managers with general organization and cleaning of laboratory areas.
• Monitor water stations and refill them as required.
• Monitor and replenish safety glasses and shoe-cover stations.

Institutional Duties and Responsibilities
Environment, Health, and Safety

• Work safely and contribute to maintaining a healthy work environment by identifying potential hazards, correcting deficiencies when appropriate, and communicating safety requirements to others.
• Perform all duties in compliance with applicable environmental health and safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Participate in required safety training based on assigned duties and responsibilities.
• Follow established laboratory safety practices, including housekeeping, hazardous material handling, waste management, chemical storage and disposal, and incident reporting.
• Follow applicable safety documentation, quality assurance, and operational procedures.

Workplace Environment and Diversity

• Work effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
• Promote a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplace where employees are valued and treated professionally.
• Support a safe and productive environment through effective communication and teamwork.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Not applicable.
Position Qualifications
Essential Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience operating laboratory glassware washers and autoclaves is preferred but not required.
• Ability to interact effectively with researchers and understand individual laboratory glassware cleaning requirements.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a variety of individuals.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain accurate work records.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to lift or move up to 45 pounds and kneel, walk, and stand for extended periods.
• Valid California driver's license.

Marginal Qualifications

• Familiarity with basic laboratory procedures, including solution preparation, culture media preparation, and sterilization.
• Working knowledge of chemical inventory procedures and chemical safety practices.