Materials Engineering Technologist

1. Give a short summary of the duties and responsibilities of your job.

The incumbent is responsible for the safe use of equipment operation for the Materials Engineering Nicol and Jackson Hall teaching and research facilities within the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering (MME).

Undergraduate Program Support
The position’s top priory is to provide support to the undergraduate teaching laboratories. The incumbent will provide guidance, advice, and oversee the safe use of equipment by diverse individuals (e.g. undergraduate and graduate students, teaching assistants, faculty, and staff) either on own or in groups, on matters related to laboratory and equipment safety; use and operation of laboratory and scientific equipment; chemical handling safety; purchases of minor laboratory supplies, consumables, and small sample pieces; and assisting in the scheduling of laboratories and facilities usage. The incumbent will anticipate and provide solutions to problems without interruption of the program and, in consultation with course instructors or as directed by the Department Manager, and will provide input to facilitate the continuous improvement of laboratory equipment for undergraduate program.

Research/Graduate Support
Provide guidance and advice to faculty, staff, and students on the safe use of laboratory equipment and chemicals, testing and layout of running experiments, suggest tools or equipment to use for an experiment or building of apparatus, and assist with the maintenance of research equipment as needed.

Health and Safety
Act as the Safety Officer for the MME facilities in Nicol and Jackson Halls. They will ensure laboratory safety procedures are being followed including the proper use, storage and recycling of chemicals, gas cylinders and any other hazardous wastes. Perform regular monthly safety inspections as required for fire extinguishers, fire hoses, emergency kits, and other safety devices. Provide advice on safe practices or direct faculty, staff, and students to others on campus in the resolution of a safety issue or question. May lead or assist other facilities within the department with the handling of emergencies e.g. chemical spills.

General Support
Provide general support for day-to-day operations e.g. set up/dismantle of laboratories and equipment, assist with minor equipment repairs or preventative maintenance, and arrange for disposal of surplus equipment. Assist Department Manager with the planning and allocation of departmental laboratory resources and design of spaces. Provide input and make recommendations to improve established quality control programs for a variety of scientific equipment for teaching and research laboratories including documenting and reporting required equipment replacement parts. Monitor and track equipment usage; inventory of laboratory supplies, and purchase minor laboratory supplies and consumables e.g. wipes, moist towelettes, glassware, chemicals, etc. Provide a safe learning environment.