STEM Lab Coordinator

Required :

Associate's degree in a STEM-related field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or a closely related discipline) and three (3) years of professional experience related to laboratory operations, STEM instruction, and outreach.

Equivalency:

Experience in laboratory operations, STEM instruction, technical support, and outreach activities. Any equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience as approved by the Human Resources Department.

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt Level:

Eight (8)

Salary Range:

$20.71 - $23.49 per hour

DOE Background:

Located in Carlsbad, New Mexico, Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) is a newly independent public community college accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. A proud Hispanic Serving Institution, it awards certificates and associate degrees that serve the needs of its region and prepare students to transfer to programs at other colleges or universities. SENMC offers Early College and Dual Credit programs in collaboration with local high schools. Southeast New Mexico College enjoys the strong support of its community, and has been awarded several grants, which include $11.7 million from the U.S. Department of Energy and several multimillion-dollar grants from the U.S. Department of Education for student support. The college's diverse employee pool includes 40 full-time faculty, 48 adjunct faculty, and 102 staff members. SENMC offers a generous benefits package which includes medical, dental, retirement, and college tuition reimbursement. More information on SENMC can be obtained from its website at https://senmc.edu .

Purpose and Scope:

Under general supervision of the Science and Engineering Department Chair, the STEM Lab Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the daily operations of STEM laboratories while supporting STEM outreach initiatives. This position plays a key role in promoting student success, workforce readiness, and STEM education by providing technical and instructional support to students and faculty in hands-on STEM learning environments and assisting with outreach efforts. These efforts will expand awareness and access to STEM education and promote engagement in STEM programs at Southeast New Mexico College.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Coordinate and oversee day-to-day operations of STEM laboratories, ensuring readiness for instructional use. Collaborate with faculty to prepare, set up, and break down laboratory experiments, demonstrations, and instructional activities. Provide technical support and guidance to faculty, staff, and students in the use of laboratory equipment, tools, and technology. Maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, and tools to ensure proper functionality, calibration, and safety. Assist in developing and implementing laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and operational standards. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional safety regulations, including proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials. Coordinate ordering, inventory, storage, and distribution of laboratory supplies and materials. Maintain accurate records of inventory, equipment maintenance, and lab usage. Ensure cleanliness, organization, and readiness of laboratory spaces and related facilities. Assist in the coordination and implementation of STEM outreach programming for K-12 students, families, and community partners. Assist with workshops, demonstrations, and hands-on activities that encourage STEM engagement. Assist in supporting partnerships with K-12 schools, community organizations, and local stakeholders. Track outreach participation and maintain records for reporting purposes. Contribute to student success by supporting an inclusive, engaging, and hands-on learning environment. Foster a culture of safety, professionalism, and respect within laboratory and outreach settings. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of laboratory operations, procedures, and safety standards in STEM disciplines. Knowledge of the use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of standard instructional laboratory equipment and technology as it relates to the undergraduate curriculum of first- and second-year STEM courses. Knowledge of chemical handling, hazardous waste procedures, and environmental health and safety standards. Knowledge of outreach strategies that engage K-12 students, community groups, and industry partners in STEM education. Ability to support outreach activities and community engagement efforts. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with students, faculty, staff, and community members. Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple responsibilities effectively. Strong problem-solving and technical troubleshooting skills. Ability to maintain accurate records and assist with data tracking and reporting. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment. Ability to follow and enforce safety procedures. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple high-impact projects in a dynamic environment. Demonstrate ability to work independently and collaboratively in cross-functional teams.

Work Environment and Physical Demand:

Reach, grasp, lift, and move laboratory equipment, supplies, and materials (light to moderate weight) Stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, or crawl Use of manual dexterity and fine motor skills for handling instruments, tools, and technical equipment Ability to communicate information orally and in writing Ability to receive and interpret written and verbal instructions Work is performed in a combination of laboratory, classroom, office, and community/outreach settings Use of computers and video display terminals for extended periods of time May be exposed to chemicals, laboratory materials, and equipment requiring adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) May require flexible scheduling to support laboratory operations, instructional needs, and outreach activities Performing the essential functions of this position requires the use of a computer throughout most of the workday, the ability to navigate a typical office environment, significant amounts of interpersonal interaction including oral and written communication, and the ability to keep track of multiple tasks, projects, deadlines, information sources, and business processes. This job description is intended to be generic in nature and describe the essential functions of the job. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities, and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.

Affirmative Action Statement:

SENMC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.