Reed College
Reed College

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Research Assistant or Associate, Chemistry

Chemistry


The Gratz Lab at Reed College in Portland, Oregon seeks a detail-oriented, research-focused person to join the group as a Research Assistant or Associate (title to be determined based on degree level and years of related experience). The candidate will support environmental chemistry and air quality research projects at the high elevation Mount Bachelor Observatory near Bend, OR and locally in Portland, OR. Familiarity with testing, operating, and troubleshooting mechanical and electronic instrumentation for chemical environmental measurements, as well as an ability to work with large datasets, are requirements of this position. The Research Assistant or Associate will support regular lab and field operations throughout the year, manage and quality control research datasets, and support undergraduate research activities in the Gratz Lab.

Reed College offers an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive and cost-free medical and dental insurance for you (Reed pays 60% on medical and dental insurance premiums for your dependents), 403(b) retirement plan with 10% employer contribution (after one year of service), educational assistance for employees and their children, 22 days of paid vacation, paid holidays, half-day Fridays in the summer, and many other campus amenities. This is a full-time, in-person role based in Portland, OR with typical work hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a one-hour unpaid lunch; these hours may vary depending on seasonal field activities and site travel. This role will initially be filled on a short-term, 3-month, appointment with possibility for renewal.

Starting pay for this position is $20.60/hour - $26.00/hour. The hourly pay rate for this position is dependent upon academic degree and years of experience, and will be determined through an internal pay assessment. This is a non-exempt (overtime eligible) position on the research pay grade. 

Who You Are

  • You have knowledge of and experience with setting up, operating, and troubleshooting mechanical and electronic systems for environmental chemical and physical measurements.
  • You have experience working in laboratory spaces containing chemical compounds and sensitive equipment, are familiar with laboratory safety protocols, and are committed to following clean handling procedures.
  • You are able to lift/move up to 30 lbs, work on your feet for extended periods of time, and drive to and work remotely at field sites.
  • You are familiar with PC-based software, such as spreadsheets, data acquisition, and data logging.
  • You are familiar with managing large datasets and have experience with statistical analysis using software such as Microsoft Excel and/or programming languages such as R or python.
  • You show effective interpersonal communication skills, as demonstrated by past success in a collaborative professional environment.
  • You are able to work independently.
  • You are also able to work alongside undergraduate students as well as faculty and professional staff.

What You’ll Do

  • Assemble, install, calibrate, test, monitor, and repair environmental sensors for wind, temperature, aerosol, trace gas, and other atmospheric and environmental parameters in a research lab and at field sites.
  • Monitor performance of environmental instruments for externally-funded research projects at the Mount Bachelor Observatory research site, and at other field sites as needed.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on equipment and test, diagnose, adjust, and calibrate gas and aerosol sensors to appropriate standards.
  • Use electronic test equipment such as multimeters, controllers, and calibrators to troubleshoot equipment malfunction(s) at the system, board, or component level; use computer-aided diagnostic software and/or digital logic devices as needed to locate malfunction(s).
  • Assist with other electronic, digital, and mechanical projects in the laboratory in preparation for fieldwork.
  • Use hand and power tools such as drill presses, grinders, band saws, hand drills, and soldering guns to layout, fabricate, and test circuit(s).
  • Analyze and monitor research data streams, and monitor calibration processes, for the Mt. Bachelor Observatory and other related field sites.
  • Evaluate equipment specifications and make purchase recommendations.
  • Communicate with technical support specialists about instrument repairs.
  • Assist students and faculty with operating instrumentation in the research lab and at research sites.
  • Provide in-lab training for students and faculty on the safe and effective operation of instruments.
  • Develop methods and procedures for proper operation of electronic equipment.
  • Act as coordinator of the research lab and site spaces, controlling supplies and layout and use of space, with supervision from the faculty member.
  • Train and collaborate with undergraduate research students in the faculty member’s laboratory.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in with major study in a science or engineering field, such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemistry, physics, or atmospheric sciences.
  • Hands-on experience with modern chemical and/or physical instrumentation and electronics.
  • Familiarity with computerized/automated instrumentation and software tools.

Application Instructions

Click below to apply. You will be directed to Interfolio to create a free account and begin your application. A resume and cover letter are required. You can submit these documents in any format, but pdf works best. 

Applications will be considered as they are submitted so you are encouraged to apply early. 

Reed College replies to every candidate. We will confirm that your application is received, and if you are not selected, we will let you know as soon as possible.

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Background Check Requirement

A criminal conviction record check is required for all college staff positions as a condition of employment for selected candidates. Employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of this background check. A conviction does not automatically disqualify a candidate; each case is reviewed based on the nature of the conviction and its relevance to the responsibilities of the position.