Job Description

Laboratory Technician

The Department of Geological Sciences is recognized internationally for research and training excellence. Our faculty, students, and staff explore physical, chemical, and biological processes that have shaped our planet over the last 4.6 billion years. Our research and training advances fundamental and applied geoscience knowledge within three themes: (i) Biological and Environmental Co-evolution of Earth; (ii) Dynamics of Earth System Processes in Modern and Deep Time; and (iii) Mineral and Energy Resources for a Sustainable Future.

Primary Purpose: This position is an integral component of our technical team, directly supporting the teaching, research, and training initiatives in the Department. In particular, these initiatives require dedicated technical support to: (1) prepare complex geological samples for various analytical techniques in the Department and university, (2) to support and train students (Highly Qualified Personnel - HQP) in the development of skills to prepare such samples, and (3) to assist and support faculty and students in experiential field programs.

Nature of Work: The geological laboratory technician reports directly to the Head of the Department of Geological Sciences, although they are expected to closely collaborate with all faculty and technical staff. The technician is expected to efficiently use their work hours to independently accomplish as many of these tasks as possible without direct supervision. In some cases, the technician may have to prioritize tasks through consultation with the Department Head and faculty. The technician is expected to use sound judgement in preparing geological samples as efficaciously and efficiently as possible. They are also expected and encouraged to bring ideas and suggestions for improved efficiency and safety to the Department Head. The technician is expected to instruct and train students in sample preparation techniques. The technician will also work with other technical staff in the Department to ensure that other Departmental priorities can be achieved in a timely manner. The technician will facilitate collaborations with units outside of the department such as industry partners, the Canadian Light Source (CLS), and the Saskatchewan Structural Sciences Centre (SSSC). They are also encouraged to develop new collaborations with other University and external partners. Errors committed by the technician in the worst case could lead to unsafe conditions for the technician or for supervised students. Errors can also lead to damaged samples or loss of time efficiency which lead to a decrease in productivity in research and a decrease in teaching quality.
Typical Duties or Accountabilities: The responsibilities of the technician include:

• all aspects of preparing rock and mineral samples, including cutting, polishing, crushing, and grinding of rock samples and the creation of thin sections and grain mounts.
• preparing other specialized samples as required for varied analytical methods, and complementary sample processing protocols including mineral separation.
• instructing students in the safe operation of all sample preparation equipment and in the effective preparation of thin sections.
• being available during working hours to consult with faculty, staff and students on all matters related to sample preparation, suggesting optimal preparation procedures and scheduling the work.
• keeping a careful inventory of samples submitted for preparation, using a digital tracking systems to keep track of their progress, and invoicing users for completed samples.
• providing assistance and advice in the acquisition of new sample infrastructure, developing technical competence and expertise in the use of new equipment, providing training in its operation, and assisting with the decommissioning of old equipment.
• taking responsibility for the maintenance, organization and safe working conditions of room 11, 70 and 251 and any other sample preparation equipment and liaising with Geological Engineering staff on the use of this room and any other shared equipment or space.
• taking responsibility for and inventorying the equipment in rooms 48 and 70, arranging for the disposal of unneeded items.
• documenting, organizing, and curating the departmental rock sample collection in the storage rooms.
• assisting with geological field schools by maintaining the field equipment used in field schools to ensure its readiness, contributing to its instructional use, and helping with organizational logistics as required.
• ensuring departmental vehicles are well-maintained and ready for use.
• assisting other technicians as required.

Education: Formal education obtained in a related field of study (diploma, certification or degree). Knowledge of geoscience is an asset.

Experience:
Work experience in geoscience is an asset. Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Prof. Sam Butler at 306-966-5702. Department: Geological Sciences
Status: Permanent 1 year with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent
Employment Group: CUPE 1975
Shift: 8:00 - 4:30
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $33.86 - 44.39 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Operational Services
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 6
Posted Date: 11/8/2023
Closing Date: 12/15/2023 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus
The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where \'Yes\' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php Criminal Record Check: Not Applicable
Driver\'s License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan\xe2\x80\x99s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the M\xc3\xa9tis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and M\xc3\xa9tis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.