Research Technician III

Date Revised: 06/25/2018

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job title: Research Technician III

Job Category: Non-Exempt

PCLS: 40115

Salary Grade: E

Summary

Incumbents in the Research Technician series perform technical procedures in a research laboratory and/or perform field research under minimal supervision by applying standard scientific techniques and analytical principles. Incumbents assist researchers by performing routine tests, collecting data, setting up and operating equipment, and maintaining various records.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Research Technician III is distinguished from the Research Technician II in that incumbents in the III level possess the knowledge and experience to perform more complex duties, including running diagnostic equipment, designing research experiments, and/or assisting with preparing research results for publishing.

Reporting and Supervisory Responsibilities

This classification has no supervisory responsibilities but train and oversee student employees.

Typical Functions

1. Sets up laboratory equipment and provides all necessary supplies.2. Executes experiment plans and directives per instructions.3. May analyze data and assist with preparing data for publication as directed.4. May support and assist with research activities of students and postdocs. 5. Maintains supply inventory including ordering supplies as needed.6. Maintains lab records.7. Provides lab safety guidelines to lab students. May oversee students during lab time.8. Ensures that laboratory spaces are clean, organized and safe.9. Coordinates the repair/maintenance of the lab with outside personnel as needed.10. Ensures that specimens are organized and stored for maximum preservation. Prepares and

collects specimens as directed.11. Maintains quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.12. Cleans laboratory and equipment.13. Designs and executes experiments as directed. May assist with interpreting and publishing

research experiments as requested.14. May deliver presentations in educational and professional settings.

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Research Technician III

Date Revised: 06/25/2018

JOB DESCRIPTION

15. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Ability to follow routine verbal or written instructions.2. Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.3. Skilled in providing guidance and instruction in laboratory protocols and in the safe use of

laboratory equipment.4. Knowledge of experimental procedures, protocols, and preparation techniques within area of

specialty.5. Knowledge of related accreditation and certification requirements.6. Ability to set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain standard laboratory and test equipment.7. Knowledge of the cleaning specifications of various laboratory and/or medical equipment,

fixtures, utensils, and related materials.8. Ability to maintain records and keep detailed reports.9. Computer skills including, spreadsheet and word-processing programs.10. Ability to diagnose instrument malfunctions in ether hardware or software.

Minimum Qualifications

Four years of experience; or an associate degree plus two years of experience; or a bachelor’s degree; or an equivalent combination of education plus experience is required.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

This position requires moderate physical activity, including the handling of average weight objects up to 25 pounds and/or standing or walking more than four hours per day. Employees are exposed to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises. The work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.

Fundamental Abilities

Within the scope and complexity of each position’s responsibilities, each incumbent is expected to possess and demonstrate the following abilities:

1. Communicating : Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing. 2. Problem solving : Analyzes information and evaluates results to select the best solution and solve

problems. 3. Monitoring : Measures performance of self; makes improvements and takes appropriate

corrective action.2

Research Technician III

Date Revised: 06/25/2018

JOB DESCRIPTION

4. Critical Thinking : Comes to well-reasoned conclusions, solutions, and approaches to problems.5. Team Building : Works to create a team-based environment. Consistently demonstrates

cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers.6. Active Listening : Gives full attention when others are speaking; listens to understand, asks

questions as appropriate, and does not interrupt.7. Service Orientation : Actively seeks opportunities to help others.8. Conflict Resolution : Acts professionally when encountering customers who, at times, may be

frustrated.

Core Characteristics

As representatives of Utah State University and primary contributors to its mission, all employees are expected to demonstrate the following characteristics:

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2. Take initiative.3. Maintain confidentiality.4. Be accountable.5. Behave ethically.6. Be honest and trustworthy.7. Demonstrate a strong work ethic.

8. Be inquisitive.9. Be detail oriented.10. Be self-motivated.11. Efficiently manage multiple tasks.12. Be a team player.13. Be committed to improving USU.

Disclaimer This position description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the position.

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Research Technician III

Date Revised: 06/25/2018

JOB DESCRIPTION

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