Research Technician Duties and Responsibilities
Purpose of Classification:
Performs data collection and reduction, laboratory techniques and
conducts surveys and excavations of limited scope requiring
initiative and judgement based on knowledge and understanding of
scientific theory.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This is
fourth in a series of seven classifications and is distinguished
from the Research/Laboratory Assistant in that incumbents are
required to use some initiative and independent judgement to plan
their work and to interpret results. Advanced technical and problem
solving skills are utilized. Incumbents must have a thorough
understanding of the theory behind tasks being performed while the
Research/Laboratory Assistant draws largely upon practical knowledge
and experience derived from trial and error in the performance of
technical procedures. Incumbents may be assigned to one of various
types of research areas such as social or physical sciences or other
specialized research fields. Incumbents may be required to travel to
remote locations to perform research experiments, surveys and
excavations and may be required to work with potentially hazardous
materials such as toxic chemicals, radiation and/or disease causing
organisms.
Examples of Duties:
- Performs scientific data collections, reductions and
analyses involving routine procedures characterized by moderate
use of independent judgement.
- Conducts experiments, surveys and excavation of sites using
various tests, routines and analyses, aerial photographs, maps
and survey instruments where procedures are clearly defined and
results readily determined.
- Maintains detailed records of studies conducted; organizes
data; prepares data for computer input and records computer
output.
- Compiles data and generates computerized statistical data
for analytical purposes using software packages; makes
preliminary analyses and assists researchers in interpreting the
data.
- Conducts library searches to find research or archaeological
information on related procedures and techniques that can be
used in the laboratory and/or field.
- Writes summaries of projects, documenting location, findings
and procedures used and assists in writing reports by conducting
literature searches and background research; prepares
bibliographies as required.
- Operates laboratory and experimental equipment such as
microtomes, microscopes, electron microscopes,
spectrophotometers, centrifuges, analytical balances,
photometers and spectrometers; performs minor repairs and makes
arrangements for major repairs to be performed.
- Assists in performing necropsies and surgical procedures on
research animals.
- Maintains detailed records of controlled substances used in
the laboratory; packages waste material and arranges for
disposal according to established procedures.
- Inventories and requisitions supplies; may maintain
bookkeeping records.
- Trains students and staff in the operation of equipment
and/or in the performance of technical procedures.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of the principles and techniques of the subject
discipline.
- Knowledge of modern research methods, data collection and
analyses.
- Skill in both verbal and written communication.
- Skill in analyzing and evaluating data.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a field appropriate to the area of assignment;
OR, Four years research or archaeological experience appropriate to
the area of assignment; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience
and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and
abilities have been achieved.
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