Part-Time Microplastics Lab TechnicianAnalyst-LDIR
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Job Location:
University Park, IL - USA
Monthly Salary:
Not Disclosed
Posted on:
20 hours ago
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty staff technical service or student) please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student please click Apply and complete the application process for external applicants.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work additional information on remote work at Penn State seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Penn State Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory seeks a detailoriented Part-Time Microplastics Laboratory Technician/Analyst to support sample processing and instrumental analysis of microplastics usingLDIR imaging spectroscopy. The successful candidate will follow establishedstandard 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 qualitycheck 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 tracksamples; verify chainofcustody labeling and documentation.
- Prepare samples per SOPs employing contaminationcontrolled workflows (e.g. clean benches glass/metal labware fiberfree PPE).
- Conductweighingdigestion(oxidative enzymatic and/or alkaline/acids where appropriate)density separationfiltration andrinse/recoverysteps tailored to matrix.
- Manageprocess blanks positive controls and spiked recovery standards and document all deviations and corrective actions.
- Maintainsample 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 compiletechnical reportsanddata 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.CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988 Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security such as those concerning alcohol and drug use crime prevention the reporting of crimes sexual assault and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race color religion age sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability please contact .
Required Experience:
IC
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About Company
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