Instructional Assistant - Chemistry



Instructional Assistant - Chemistry

Salary

$43,680.00 - $58,890.00 Annually

Location

Costa Mesa, CA

Job Type

Classified Staff

Job Number

O-001-19

Division

Orange Coast College

Department

IS/Math&Sci

Opening Date

06/18/2018

Closing Date

7/6/2018 12:00 PM Pacific

Definition

Under general supervision of the Dean,  assists instructors of Chemistry classes in the preparation and operation of teaching laboratories and maintenance of laboratory chemicals, equipment, and stockrooms; prepares solutions, chemical reagents, unknown samples, and equipment for the teaching laboratories; stocks chemicals and equipment; maintains and updates chemical data base and inventory; arranges for disposal of hazardous waste in accordance with the health and safety regulations;  performs related work as required. This position provides instructional support for Chemistry classes and labs requiring technical competence in basic math and chemistry, use of instructional equipment and software, and basic academic skills.  Please note that the responsibilities for this position do not involve any teaching duties in the classroom.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:  Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

  1. Assist in laboratory preparations for all chemistry classes.
  2. Organize and restock chemicals, supplies, and equipment in the teaching laboratories.
  3. Prepare chemical solutions for use in the laboratories and stockroom.
  4. Set up specialized instruments, equipment, and demonstrations.
  5. Perform simple maintenance and calibration of various instruments, including electronic balances, pH meters, UV/VIS spectrophotometers, gas chromatographs, and FT infrared spectrometers.
  6. Maintain specialized instruments and equipment in good operational condition.
  7. Exercise personal initiative to prioritize and schedule work to ensure that instructional materials are ready when needed and all duties are executed in a timely fashion.
  8. Perform assigned tasks independently without immediate supervision.
  9. Issue equipment and supplies to students, and monitor their return at the end of laboratory periods.
  10. Assist in the preparation of equipment and supply budget and provide lists of equipment costs to department, when requested.
  11. Use current technology to track department equipment, chemical, and supply inventories.
  12. Clean and stock glass wear and equipment, chemicals, and supplies in student instructional areas; wash and store labware.
  13. Follow all health and safety regulations and ensure students are aware of such regulations.
  14. Provide information on resources available to students.
  15. Keep records and documentation on equipment, instruments and supplies necessary for the lab and.
  16. Demonstrate and maintain a check on safety procedures and equipment in the laboratory.
  17. Direct students in emergency procedures and observe/enforce laboratory rules.
  18. Demonstrate or describe the proper operation of equipment, instruments and supplies used in lab work.
  19. Make minor repairs and adjustments to laboratory related equipment.
  20. Perform general clerical duties related to the maintenance and efficiency of laboratory instructional areas.
  21. Use and store chemicals and equipment, in compliance with OSHA regulations.
  22. Consult with vendors regarding supplies, materials and equipment needs.
  23. Work cooperatively with supervisor, faculty, and staff during the course of work.
  24. Perform other related work as required.
 

Qualifications and Physical Demands

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
 
Knowledge of:

  1. Basic math such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division and knowledge of basic college level inorganic and organic chemistry to be able to do calculations to prepare chemicals, knowing the amounts of chemicals required and the calculations necessary for chemical equipment use.
  2. Supplies and equipment used in chemistry laboratories and record keeping consistent with inventory control.
  3. Proper laboratory techniques for preparation, testing, and storage of solutions.
  4. English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
  5. Basic math.
  6. Simple record keeping
  7. Proper methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the assigned learning laboratory.
  8. Appropriate safety precautions and procedures as they apply to chemical laboratories, mixing chemicals, and waste disposal, in compliance with OSHA regulations and District Health and Safety procedures.
Ability to:
  1. Properly set up all chemistry laboratories, including chemical preparations, equipment maintenance, etc.
  2. Operate and perform minor routine maintenance to chemistry equipment.
  3. Use current and applicable technology to perform specific tasks.
  4. Compose correspondence.
  5. Maintain chemicals and dispose of waste according to procedures specified by District Health and Safety.
  6. Perform basic math and chemistry calculations.
  7. Maintain simple, accurate records.
  8. Maintain chemical inventory on computer in compliance with the Office of Health and Safety.
  9. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
  10. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  11. Plan and organize workload to ensure laboratories are available and operational according to schedule.
  12. Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work and be flexible to changing situations and needs.
Education and Experience:
  1. Two years of college level course work in chemistry or the equivalent (must include inorganic and organic chemistry classes).
  2. Or, any combination of education and experience that would provide the required qualifications.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
  • Two years' experience in an instructional setting as a lab technician or in a similar position.

Conditions of Employment

This is a full time, 12 month per year position. The normal hours of work are between 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  The effective date of employment will be arranged with the supervisor.

  • Regular attendance is considered an essential job function; the inability to meet attendance requirements may preclude the employee from retaining employment.
  • The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in Coast Community College District policies, procedures, and Title IX. (Reference: BP/AP 5910)
  • The Coast Community College District celebrates all forms of diversity and is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment within which students, staff, administrators, and faculty thrive. Individuals interested in advancing the District's strategic diversity goals are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose.

PAY PHILOSOPHY: Coast Community College District, through policies, practices, and other benefit programs, delivers a fair and equitable total compensation program that promotes equal employment opportunity, inclusion, and workforce vitality.  In general, it is the policy of the District to place new employees at the first step of the salary grade.  All movement on the salary schedule will occur July 1 of each year for all classified employees.

Additional Information

ATTENTION: Before applying, please be sure to review the Coast Colleges District Board Policy regarding Nepotism ((BP 7310) (Download PDF reader) (Download PDF reader) (Download PDF reader)) to check if your application may be impacted. If you have any questions, please contact HR Recruitment at 714-438-4714 or 714-438-4716.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
To be considered for employment you must submit a COMPLETE application packet. A complete application packet includes:
1. A complete Classified/Management Employment Application.
2. A current resume (attached as a separate document - PDF recommended).
3. A cover letter highlighting your qualifications for the desired position (attached as a separate document - PDF recommended).
4. Answers to all Supplemental Questions (please provide clear, thorough responses as they will be carefully evaluated to determine the most qualified candidate(s) to be invited for an interview; please do not put "see resume:, N/A, or leave blank).

 
Submission of all required application information and materials is the responsibility of the applicant.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES:
Applications must be received no later than the posted closing date. There are NO EXCEPTIONS. Electronic applications may be completed by visiting www.cccd.edu/employment. Once you have completed an electronic application, you may apply to open positions within the Coast Community College District by submitting the application and all other required materials. Required materials differ for each open position and must be complete when submitted for a specific posting. Instructions for completing applications and applying to posted positions are available online or by calling Applicant Processing at (714) 438-4714 or (714) 438-4716.

Information for TDD users is available by calling (714) 438-4755.
 
All applications will be screened under a process of utmost confidentiality by a committee of representatives from the college community. All application materials become the property of the Coast Community College District and will NOT be copied or returned. Any documents that you are unable to attach can be faxed to (714) 782-6065. Faxes must clearly indicate your name and the job to which you are applying.

To ensure consistency and fairness to all applicants, please do not submit materials in addition to those requested. Additional materials will not be considered or returned. Be sure to complete all questions and sections of the application. For questions which may not apply, indicate "n/a" (not applicable). If you do not know an answer, please indicate so, but do not leave any space blank. 

Disability Accommodations:
If you require accommodations in the Application or Examination Process, please notify Human Resources by calling (714) 438-4714 or (714) 438-4716.

SELECTION PROCEDURES:

  1. All online applications and required materials received by the deadline date will be screened to determine which applicant(s) meet(s) the minimum qualifications as stated in the job announcement. Please note: Possession of the minimum qualifications does not ensure an interview.
  2. Applicants who meet the required qualifications and who are also deemed to possess the highest degree of desirable qualifications will be invited to discuss their qualifications in an interview with the College/District. Therefore, it is highly recommended that applicants submit clear, detailed responses to all supplemental questions in order to demonstrate his/her qualifications as related to the position.
  3. If any travel is required for an applicant to participate in-person during the interview process, this will be done so at the candidate's own expense.

 

The Coast Community College District is a multi-college district that includes Coastline Community CollegeGolden West College, and Orange Coast College.  The three colleges offer programs in transfer, general education, occupational/technical education, community services and student support services.  Coastline, Golden West and Orange Coast Colleges enroll more than 60,000 students each year in more than 300 degree and certificate programs. 

Since its founding in 1947, the Coast Community College District has enjoyed a reputation as one of the leading community college districts in the United States.  Governed by a locally elected Board of Trustees, the Coast Community College District plays an important role in the community by responding to needs of a changing and increasingly diverse population.

Coast Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The Coast Community College District is committed to employing qualified administrators/managers, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students. The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and provide equal consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not discriminate unlawfully in providing educational or employment opportunities to any person on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision
We know that the health of our employees and their families is a priority. That's why we offer extensive health care benefits to benefits-eligible employees. We offer the District's PPO plan as well as two HMO's, United Health Care and Kaiser Permanente. We also provide District-paid dental and vision insurance. 

Benefits are available to regular permanent employees working 20 or more hours per week.  Benefits are not available to temporary or short term employees.

District-paid Life Insurance
The District provides Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance benefits, underwritten by ING. This District-paid benefit is equal to one time your annual salary and remains in effect until age 70.

District-paid Disability Benefits
Coast provides both short and long term disability benefits for eligible employees unable to work because of disability due to illness, injury, or maternity.

Voluntary Plans
A variety of voluntary plans are offered through the District to benefits-eligible employees such as Long Term Care, Hyatt Legal, and Section 125 compliant flexible spending accounts.

Enrich Your Profession
Professional Development Programs
The District offers a variety of Professional Development programs for faculty and classified staff that encompasses all types of facilitated learning opportunities, ranging from college degrees to formal coursework and conferences. We encourage lifelong learning that maintains and improves professional competencies, enhances career progression, and keeps our employees on the cutting edge of their profession.

Sabbatical Leaves
Faculty members are encouraged to pursue professional growth leading to the development of increased competence and the improvement of instruction and/or redirection in their current teaching discipline. The District's sabbatical leave program is designed to assist in this pursuit and is available on a semester basis after completing six consecutive years of service.

Academic Senate
The Academic Senate is the governing body at each of our colleges for making recommendations to administration and to our Board of Trustees with respect to academic and professional matters. The Senate consists of elected faculty and has the responsibility for matters related to curriculum and general academic policy.

Time to Refuel
Vacation
Classified, contract staff earn vacation days commensurate with years of service. Classified Management and Administrators earn 22 days vacation per year.

Sick Leave
All contract employees earn sick leave as outlined in the CA Education Code. Sick leave may be carried over from year-to-year and, upon retirement, unused sick leave may contribute to your PERS and STRS retiree benefit.

Holidays
The District observes 21 paid holidays per year.

Jury Duty, Bereavement, Military Leave
Coast grants contract employees called to jury duty a leave of absence, without loss of pay, for the entire length of required service. Other available leaves include bereavement from 3-5 days and military leaves of absence in accordance with applicable state laws.

Great Expectations
Pension Plans
The District participates in the California State Teachers Retirement System (CalSTRS) and the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) for contract employees. Non-contract employees participate in Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) plan for the first 1,000 hours of their employment.
Additionally, it is the policy of the Coast Community College District that contract employees who retire from the District with ten or more years of service be afforded the same group insurance benefits until 70 years of age. A Medicare Supplement or GAP plan  is available to retirees and their spouses after age 70.

Annuities
The District maintains a program whereby qualified employees may request through Payroll to have a portion of his or her salary deposited under a tax sheltered annuity plan or an approved deferred compensation plan.

Schools First Federal Credit Union

The Schools First Federal Credit Union is a federally insured, full service, financial cooperative that is a not-for-profit organization. Earnings are used to benefit all members to provide a full range of financial services and offerings.


01
Please describe your previous work experience as it relates to the duties of this position; emphasize laboratory positions that require a working knowledge of chemistry.
02
Describe your educational background, with an emphasis on science lab courses relevant to the duties of this position (i.e., general chemistry, organic chemistry, instrumental analysis, etc.). Also include any additional recent professional development (e.g., conferences or seminars) you've completed that is relevant to this position.
03
Describe in detail any positions you have held where a significant percentage of your work was performed with limited direction from coworkers and with minimal supervision.
04
Describe your experience preparing solutions, managing hazardous materials and waste and trouble shooting chemistry lab equipment ( pH meters, hot plates, balances, gas chromatographs).
05
An instructor comes to you saying their laboratory is not set up for class, which is about to start. You learn that an hourly worker has called in sick and failed to prepare the room. You also have a set up to prepare. How do you handle this situation?
06
Please list all undergraduate general chemistry and organic chemistry classes that you have completed.
07
I understand that a COMPLETE application packet is required for consideration, which includes the following: 1. A completed Coast Community College District Online Employment Application 2. A current resume (uploaded as a separate attachment - PDF recommended) 3. A cover letter (uploaded as a separate attachment - PDF recommended) 4. Clear and detailed responses to all supplemental questions (required for evaluation purposes)
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Agency
Coast Community College District
Address
1370 Adams Avenue

Costa Mesa, California, 92626
Phone
714-438-4668
714-438-4714