REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) with biology and/or chemistry course work.
• Ability to follow the directions of the science teachers.
• Ability to operate the scientific equipment available in the laboratory.
• Ability to safely prepare chemical solutions, including acids, bases, and organic compounds.
• Ability to culture and maintain living organisms.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, concisely in both oral and written form.
• Capable of performing the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Regular and predictable attendance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with the FCPS policies, goals and programs.

ROLE

Under the direct supervision of a certified classroom teacher, the Instructional Assistant, Science Lab organizes, maintains, and makes available all equipment, glassware, chemicals, organisms (preserved and living), and associated materials in proper quantities for the execution of laboratory experiments.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Reporting directly to the Classroom Teacher/Administrator, the Instructional Assistant, Science Lab performs the following duties:

• Check equipment for proper operation.
• Maintain all stored chemicals in a properly coordinated fashion which provides ready access to chemicals for teachers while eliminating potentially dangerous storage conditions.
• Mix chemical solutions to proper concentrations, and check solutions to be sure that chemicals react properly.
• Check stocks of chemicals and living organisms for purity and viability.
• Prepare laboratory equipment and materials for use in classroom activities.
• Prepare laboratory equipment and materials for use by special contract students.
• Maintain cultures of living materials, and prepare them for summer storage.
• Prioritize work assignments appropriately.
• Complete work assignments in an efficient manner; seek out additional assignments as time permits.
• Demonstrate support for the organization and its goals; accepts constructive criticism.
• Reports promptly for work, utilizes time wisely and maintains an acceptable attendance pattern.