LABORATORY SPECIALIST SENIOR 43072

7/1/89 B

This is the second class in the Laboratory Specialist series responsible for performing complex scientific analyses and procedures in a teaching, research, clinical, service, or regulatory laboratory. Positions at this level participate in and may act as lead worker in the design, modification, evaluation, and performance of a variety of standardized and/or specialized techniques in areas such as the chemical, biological, or related physical sciences. This class is distinguished from the Laboratory Specialist class by its responsibility for conducting more complex procedures with greater independence and responsibility in determining work methods, analyzing data, and overseeing laboratory activities. This class is distinguished from the Laboratory Specialist Advanced class in that the latter class performs work of unusual difficulty and/or directs personnel performing in a variety of laboratory operations.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty involving a variety of specialized laboratory procedures and analyses. Responsibilities include modifying and developing laboratory procedures; researching literature related to project and procedures; conducting experiments; recording and analyzing results; teaching laboratory techniques; troubleshooting instrument problems; performing preventive maintenance on equipment; and writing segments of reports and manuscripts. May serve as a lead worker by coordinating and distributing the laboratory workload, assisting laboratory personnel with problems, and reviewing experimental results and procedures for accuracy and efficiency.

Supervision Given: Generally supervision is not a factor; however, positions may act as lead workers and oversee the work of Laboratory Specialists and other laboratory support personnel.

Supervision Received: Receives directions from a Laboratory Specialist Advanced, Laboratory Manager, or other higher level laboratory, academic, or administrative position. Receives guidance regarding long-term goals and objectives of the laboratory, implementation of new procedures, or when unusual technical problems arise.

Scope: Work affects the ability of a laboratory to conduct research, instruct students, provide service, and/or enforce regulations.

Impact of Actions: Effective job performance positively impacts the outcome and future direction of research, the delivery of academic instruction, the provision of laboratory testing services, and the enforcement of health and safety regulations through the modification and development of procedures, the reporting and analysis of data, and the teaching of laboratory techniques. In a clinical environment, inaccurate laboratory results can lead to the inappropriate diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal contacts with investigators, students, and laboratory users to discuss procedures and experimental findings. Occasional external contacts with investigators or laboratory personnel in other institutions to collaborate on research projects or train personnel; with regulatory personnel regarding laboratory safety and quality assurance policy compliance; with representatives of laboratory supply companies regarding new equipment and procedures; with vendors to order supplies and repair equipment; and/or with patients regarding laboratory work.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of the theory and application of the physical sciences and instrumentation related to field of assignment.

Skills: None identified for this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to independently conduct a variety of standardized and specialized laboratory techniques; to operate laboratory equipment; to modify and develop laboratory procedures; to accurately interpret and report findings; and to train others and direct their work.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with course work in chemistry, biology, or a related physical science.

Level and Type of Experience: Laboratory experience involving the application of theoretical knowledge of experimental procedures and techniques including the use of various laboratory instruments and analytical methods.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established in July 1989 as a result of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program. It replaces the Laboratory Specialist B class.