Visiting Laboratory Technician - Illinois Fire Service Institute

Illinois Fire Service Institute

PRIMARY POSITION FUNCTION/SUMMARY:

The Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is seeking a dedicated and collaborative Visiting Lab Technician to support its research program focused on advancing the health and safety of first responders. This position will contribute to projects involving the analysis of various biological samples and the biomonitoring of human participants.

This full-time role, with the possibility of annual renewal, offers a meaningful opportunity to support evidence-based research in a dynamic and mission-driven environment. Located within IFSI's state-of-the-art research facility, the position plays a key role in promoting occupational health and safety for first responders and supports the broader public engagement and research mission of the University.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Receive, process and analyze biological samples (e.g., blood and urine).
• Perform routine and non-routine sample preparations, tests, and analysis using the appropriate equipment, instrumentation, reagents, standards, and methods.
• Under the supervision of the Technical Director, regularly use analytical and clinical instrumentation and its software (including but not limited to Elisa, LC-MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS).
• Ensure routine and non-routine operation and maintenance of multiple mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography platforms and analytical instruments.
• Ensure analytical results are communicated per internal protocols.
• Maintain, recalibrate, and sterilize lab equipment, instruments, and workspaces.
• Design and conduct laboratory tests according to standard operating procedures.
• Organize and store biological samples in accordance with all safety standards and other requirements to ensure the safety of personnel and integrity of the biological samples.
• Manage the Laboratory Information Management System for bio samples and consumables.
• Ensure completion of research project deliverables, determine project milestones, develop progress reports and investigational applications.
• Assist in preparing and developing accurate project performance progress reports for research activities as required by campus offices and funding agencies.
• Compile and summarize project outcomes to be used in presentations at scientific conferences and Fire Service Organizations.
• Facilitate operations for human subject research candidate recruitment, collect and process biological samples, and related activities.
• Manage day-to-day research lab activities, and perform other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

1. B.S or higher in Biological or Chemical Science, or related disciplines.
2. 1-2 years of experience relevant to analysis of biological samples.
3. Proven record(s) of working with advanced analytical and diagnostic laboratory equipment (such as Elisa, LC-MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS).
4. Basic understanding of laboratory safety practices and chemical hygiene.
5. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
6. Enthusiastic, motivated, and proactive problem solver with superb planning, organizational, and coordinating skills.
7. Experience working with the University administration, particularly IRB, IBC and/or IACUC (or similar programs at other institutions).
8. Familiar with computer software typically used in scientific research and dissemination (such as Microsoft Office Suite, Box, Google Docs).
9. Demonstrated record of performance, positive attitude, and ability to work well with others.

Preferred:

1. Experienced in project management and leadership skills.
2. Knowledgeable in general laboratory operations, inventory management, and acquisition of new equipment for expansion of IFSI research programs.
3. Experience working with tools such as SPSS, Qualtrics, REDCap, Python.
4. Experience working in a biomonitoring, toxicology, or clinical research setting.
5. Familiarity with method validation procedures.
6. Comfort working with potentially sensitive human sample data and privacy requirements (e.g., HIPAA awareness).
7. Knowledgeable in troubleshooting mass spectrometer analytical platforms.
8. Phlebotomy certification or experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

The Visiting Lab Technician role requires the ability to perform tasks in a laboratory and research environment that may involve the following physical demands:

• Ability to stand, walk, and move between lab spaces for extended periods of time.
• Frequent handling of biological samples, requiring fine motor skills, precision, and attention to detail.
• Regular use of laboratory equipment and instrumentation, including pipettes, centrifuges, mass spectrometry systems, and other analytical tools, which may require repetitive hand motions and visual acuity.
• Occasional lifting, moving, or transporting of laboratory supplies, equipment, and biological samples weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, lab coats, and safety glasses, for prolonged periods.
• Capacity to work safely with biological specimens (e.g., blood and urine) and chemical reagents in accordance with institutional biosafety and hazardous materials protocols.
• Ability to sit or stand at a workstation for extended periods while analyzing data or operating instrumentation.
• Occasional need to work evenings or weekends depending on project timelines or human subject availability.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Visiting Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis, with the possibility of annual renewal. The expected start date is as soon as possible after September 16, 2025. Salary range is $45,000-60,000.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 18, 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Keri Borchers, kerib@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1032103
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu