Laboratory Supervisor

Hours per Week: 37.5

Salary Grade: Level O

With an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is one of six academic units in the Faculty of Engineering. Faculty and staff in the department support and foster the educational and research pursuits of undergraduate and graduate engineering students, while providing the best student experience. The Department aspires to become one of the top Civil Engineering Departments in the world. It will do so by relentlessly pursuing excellent research, faculty profile and graduate and undergraduate education that engages students.

The Laboratory Supervisor provides technical support for the undergraduate teaching labs, graduate research labs and faculty research labs in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering including those affiliated with the Geotechnical Research Centre. The role is specifically responsible for the Environmental Labs (Geochemistry, Drinking water, and Geoenvironmental Labs) and the Advanced Concrete Technology Lab. The Laboratory Supervisor is expected to have a level of expertise with which they can assist undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, staff, faculty, or others in almost any area of lab operation. The role provides training and oversight to students to ensure laboratory sessions are delivered properly and consistently and ensures compliance with health and safety standards during the labs.

The Laboratory Supervisor ensures the availability of materials and information necessary for the conduct of laboratory sessions and assists with developing and preparing laboratory sessions with regards to the facilities, experimental procedures, materials, equipment, instrumentation, maintenance, troubleshooting and administration. The role researches supplies, materials and equipment and provides estimates for budgets, designs special apparatus and equipment for labs and collects and disposes of hazardous solutions and waste according to Health and Safety Guidelines.

Education:

• 4 year University Bachelors Degree in Chemistry, Environmental Sciences or Environmental Engineering
• Graduate degree in a similar Science or Engineering Degree preferred

Experience:

• 4 years of experience working in an Environmental Engineering (or similar sciences) academic laboratory environment
• Experience in the area of geochemistry, drinking water and ICP-Spectroscopy labs
• Experience developing protocols and working as a supervisor ensuring safety in a laboratory environment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Working knowledge of Inductive Plasma Spectrometer, gas and liquid chromatographs, mass spectrometer, auto-titrator, mercury intrusion porosimeter, centrifuge, pH and ion meters, water chemistry, zeta potential analyzer and surface potential analyzer preferred
• Basic knowledge of data acquisition systems which monitor sensors during testing (e.g. force, displacement and pressure) is preferred
• Basic working knowledge of hand tools, glassware, electrical and electronic equipment found in a laboratory environment
• Knowledge in proper handling procedures for toxic substances, proper separation of waste and documentation required for disposal
• In-depth knowledge of common laboratory practices, safe handling procedures, Occupational Health and Safety, WHMIS, MSDS, TDG, Safe Drinking Water Act, etc.
• Manual dexterity and the ability to perform precise movements
• Demonstrated ability to write clear, concise procedural documentation
• Flexibility to work outside of regular business hours and travel on occasion
• Ability and willingness to stay abreast of technological developments
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing learning and professional development
• Excellent analytical skills with a demonstrated ability to complete detailed procedural documentation and reports
• A strong record of teamwork with the motivation and ability to work independently with little supervision
• Demonstrated ability to apply creativity, innovation and resourcefulness to daily work
• Possesses a reputation for resourcefulness with a strong sense of accountability and initiative
• Excellent communication skills with the proven ability and natural inclination to interact with people in a professional, respectful and diplomatic manner
• Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure and handle multiple conflicting priorities in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions
• Demonstrated ability to research/investigate issues and resolve problems
• Judgement, analytical and problem solving skills with a consultative and collaborative approach to addressing issues and opportunities
• Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
• Demonstrated ability to give effective presentations in front of medium sized groups (such as undergraduate lab lectures, orientation, etc.)
  

Western welcomes applications from all qualified individuals; however, it is the university's policy to give first consideration to all qualified UWOSA applicants.

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.