Research Assistant - WISER Analytical Laboratory

The WVU Institute for Sustainability and Energy Research (WISER) Analytical Laboratory at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Research Assistant.

About the Opportunity

The person holding this position will conduct chemical analysis of samples from clients of the WISER Analytical Laboratory. The work will require skilled functions associated with an analytical laboratory, including but not limited to sample preparation (e.g. sample digestion, dilution, conditioning), preparing standards, running and maintaining specific analytical equipment, generating and verifying data, etc.

We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:

• 37.5-hour work week
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• 15 annual leave (vacation) days per year (employee leave)
• 18 sick days per year (for when you're ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family's, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ's.
• Wellness programs

What You'll Do

• Conduct chemical analysis of samples from clients of the WISER Analytical Laboratory that meets the accuracy
  and standard requirements. This will include the completion of all the steps, from sample introduction to analysis
  and data generation. All samples will be prepared using standard operating procedures. The operation of the
  equipment will include quality control and quality assurance procedures specific to each instrument and method.
• Execution of additional laboratory operations will be required, including but not limited to the operation of standard
  laboratory support equipment, preparation of standards, routine equipment maintenance, chemical waste disposal
  and other activities associated with sample analysis, with strong adherence to all the laboratory safety
  requirements.
• Basic operation related to the management of samples (for ex. Receiving samples, data management, maintaining
  workflow)
• Participation in regular meetings with supervisors to discuss and coordinate work responsibilities, performance and
  planning and other duties as assigned.

Pay Grade: 15

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, chemical engineering technology, or other related field.
• 0-6 months of experience in the following:
  • Experience in an analytical laboratory
  • Experience in a similarly structured analytical lab, or the equivalent knowledge and experience gained by completing advanced chemistry courses which include laboratory requirements.
  • Experience in conducting analyses on a continuing basis and the skills necessary to maintain quality control for repetitive sample analysis.
  • Experience in understanding and evaluating the operational status of complex equipment.
  • Experience in following laboratory safety requirements.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of measurement science, instrumentation, chemistry and quality assurance/quality control.
• Ability to implement and evaluate correctly analytical methods, handle routine maintenance and prepare analytical reports.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and ability to follow all safety rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of gas regulators and demonstrated ability to work with gas cylinders under pressure (including cryogenics).
• Ability to communicate clearly, both in writing and verbally.
• Ability to function independently.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
• Basic computer skills.
• Basic math skills.

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.