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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Penn State Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory seeks a detail‑oriented Part-Time Microplastics Laboratory Technician/Analyst to support sample processing and instrumental analysis of microplastics using LDIR imaging spectroscopy. The successful candidate will follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs) to prepare environmental, biological, and ecological samples; operate and maintain sample preparation equipment; run the LDIR from setup through scanning and data generation; and interpret, quality‑check, and report results consistent with project QA/QC requirements.

This position contributes to multidisciplinary research on contaminants and supports internal and external projects with an emphasis on data integrity, method traceability, and safe laboratory practice.

Key Responsibilities-

Sample Receipt, Preparation & Handling

• Receive, log, and track samples; verify chain‑of‑custody, labeling, and documentation.
• Prepare samples per SOPs, employing contamination‑controlled workflows (e.g., clean benches, glass/metal labware, fiber‑free PPE).
• Conduct weighing, digestion (oxidative, enzymatic, and/or alkaline/acids where appropriate), density separation, filtration, and rinse/recovery steps tailored to matrix.
• Manage process blanks, positive controls, and spiked recovery standards, and document all deviations and corrective actions.
• Maintain sample preparation equipment (analytical balances, sonicators, vacuum manifolds, density separation apparatus, ovens/desiccators, filtration towers) and consumables inventory.

LDIR Instrument Operation & Data

• Instrument setup & calibration: verify optics, background, alignment, and performance checks; manage spectral libraries and reference materials.
• Slide preparation: mount and condition filters/substrates to minimize background and optimize particle detection.
• Scanning & acquisition: define regions of interest, set particle detection thresholds, spectral resolution, and scanning parameters per SOPs and project specs.
• Data generation & interpretation: review particle segmentation, spectra quality, and classification; assign polymer types, particle size metrics, and morphologies.
• QA/QC & reporting: apply acceptance criteria (e.g., spectral match thresholds, duplicate concordance), validate batch results, compile technical reports and data tables (including uncertainty estimates, QC summaries, and method notes).

Compensation: $15.00/hour

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

 

 

 

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