What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Specialist III position at University of South Carolina?
Posting Number
RTF00202PO24
USC Market Title
Research Laboratory Manager
Link to USC Market Title
https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/156391
Business Title (Internal Title)
Research Specialist III
Campus
Beaufort
Work County
Beaufort
College/Division
USC Beaufort College/Division Level
Department
BFT Academic Affairs
Advertised Salary Range
$54,165
Location of Vacancy
Part/Full Time
Full Time
Hours per Week
37.5
Work Schedule
Standard working schedule: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Type of Staff Position
Staff Research Grant (SRGP)
Basis
12 months
Job Search Category
Other Professional
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below
The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
South Carolina Retirement
Yes
State Insurance Programs
Yes
Annual Leave
Yes
Sick Leave
Yes
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Water Quality Lab Manager to lead our growing laboratory in analyzing and monitoring the waters of the Lowcountry. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of the laboratory operations, including managing personnel, conducting analyses, maintaining equipment, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and contributing to research projects.
Responsibilities:
- Direct and manage the Water Quality Lab to analyze and monitor various water parameters, including total nitrogen, phosphorus, fecal coliform, enterococci, suspended solids, biological oxygen demand, and in-situ measurements such as temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and turbidity.
- Identify, purchase, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment and supplies necessary for water quality analyses.
- Obtain and maintain State of South Carolina DHEC certification for the lab and all water quality parameters.
- Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory analyses and operations.
- Maintain written manuals for sample receipt, storage, documentation, and processing procedures.
- Conduct water quality analyses following established operating procedures and ensure the accuracy and reliability of results.
- Establish a system to store, evaluate, and disseminate resulting data appropriately.
- Plan, manage, and administer the laboratory budget, ensuring proper documentation and record-keeping.
- Collect water samples for analysis as needed and ensure compliance with sampling protocols.
- Participate in the design and implementation of applied research projects related to water quality.
- Train and supervise graduate and undergraduate research assistants as required.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in a related research field (such as Biology, Marine Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Coastal Ecology, Oceanography) and 3 or more years of experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials
Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to those candidates with experience conducting the analyses described in the job summary and/or managing a water quality lab. Understanding of both the theoretical and technical aspects of the operation and maintenance of a Stable Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer and Elemental Analyzer, and ICP-Atomic Emission Spectrometer is also preferred.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
Working knowledge of laboratory methods, equipment, facilities, materials and experience in the operation, maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment. The ability to maintain a high degree of quality assurance/quality control. The ability to develop, evaluate and implement research methodologies and laboratory procedures and plan, organize and evaluate activities. The ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing to a variety of audiences. Proficiency with basic computer programs to include word processing, data spreadsheets and statistical analyses. Experience in budget development, management, evaluation and administration. Must have the ability to assist with the writing of grant proposals and scientific publications.
Job Duties
Job Duty
Manage day to day operations of the lab including laboratory policy development and enforcement, equipment maintenance and quality control, budgeting, record keeping, staff supervision, sample collection schedule, and collaborating with grantors to address requests.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
40
Job Duty
Conduct water quality analyses as required to obtain and maintain State of South Carolina DHEC laboratory and parameter certifications related to the Clean Water and Safe Drinking Acts.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
10
Job Duty
Collect water samples at strategic locations for analysis as appropriate.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
10
Job Duty
Prepare and deliver water quality reports to grantors within 48 hours of running samples.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
30
Job Duty
Design, conduct, and dissemination of applied research projects related to water quality in the lowcountry.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
10
Position Attributes
Hazardous weather category
Non-Essential
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
No
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
Position End Date
Job Open Date
06/14/2024
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
Quicklink for Posting
https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/170030
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Salary : $54,165
