Laboratory Technician

Position Information

Position Number L00061 Position Title Laboratory Technician Division/Portfolio Applied Research Department/Program Research Contracts (BCBTAC) Location Penticton Other Flexible Work Options Your Opportunity

Under the limited supervision of the Manager, BC Beverage Technology Access Centre (BCBTAC), the Laboratory Technician performs analytical tests, installs and maintains lab and general equipment in the Science labs; troubleshoots, repairs and optimizes equipment; organizes and maintains an inventory of supplies and equipment; maintains live microorganisms and cultures; complies with standard biosafety practices; maintains documentation for regulatory compliance (e.g. Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) and Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG)).

Functions and Duties

1. Performs analytical tests, maintains live microorganisms, and prepares solutions, media, and cultures as directed;

2. Ensures the safe and correct operation of equipment;

3. Maintains science equipment such as glassware, computers, microscopes and other science lab equipment ( ex. GC, GCMS, HPLC, PCR, qPCR ,electrophoresis); responsible for general cleanup of the lab;

4. Troubleshoots, repairs, upgrades and optimizes equipment and lab specific computers; places work requests to IT Services and Facilities when required;

5. Coordinates the use of lab equipment between users;

6. Conducts and coordinates lab safety inspections;

7. Maintains appropriate records and documentation for regulatory compliance (e.g. ISO 17025, Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS), Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG));

8. Complies with standard biosafety practices as defined by the Public Health Agency of Canada;

9. Ensures safe storage of chemicals and the safe collection, transportation, handling and disposal of hazardous and glass waste;

10. Procures laboratory materials by sourcing supplies and equipment including off campus purchases and samples;

11. Maintains records of lab inventory and lab test results;

12. Communicates results to clients; ensures confidentiality of client data;

13. Interacts with clients utilizing the services of the lab;

14. Will support student and faculty research projects, as assigned; and

15. Performs other duties as required.

Education and Experience

A Bachelor of Science in Microbiology or other related discipline is required. A minimum 2 years related experience (food and beverage microbiology) is required. Experience developing Lab Standard Operating Procedures is an asset. A valid Occupational First Aid - Level 2 certificate is required. A valid class five driver's license is required.

Skills and Abilities

• Able to perform work of a routine nature with minimal or no direct supervision
• Proven ability to repair, operate and service science lab equipment
• Able to lift and move lab equipment (up to 30 pounds)
• Able to distinguish colour to interpret colourimetric tests
• Able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Able to keep accurate and complete records

Preferred Qualifications

Winemaking, Viticulture & Brewing Experience

Desired Start Date 09/01/2025 Position End Date (if temporary) 03/31/2026 Schedule Annual Salary/Hourly Rate $33.93 to $38.77 Appointment Type Support - Regular Full-time Special Instructions to Applicants

Shortlisted internal candidates must notify the current Support Staff Bargaining Chairperson and People Services if they want a Union Observer during interviews and final selection of candidates.

Please note: this position is externally funded and is subject to operational needs and is based on the length of the specific contract and whether such contract is renewed. Employees who are hired for externally funded positions are not entitled to bumping rights or severance as per the BCGEU Support Staff Collective Agreement (Letter of Understanding #13).

Employee Group Support