Technician A

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

Columbia University Irving Medical Center seeks a full-time Technician A, Glassware. This role supports research and clinical operations by preparing, cleaning, sterilizing, and distributing glassware and plasticware across multiple laboratories. Responsibilities include operating and maintaining industrial washers, autoclaves, and dryers; ensuring proper pH balance of glassware; transporting materials; and maintaining autoclave logs and service records. The technician also assists with recharge center billing, facility support, equipment maintenance, supply ordering, departmental deliveries, and general lab cleaning.

Responsibilities

• Operate industrial washers and autoclaves : load, run, monitor, and record sterilization cycles; ensure proper pH balance
• Inspect glassware and lab equipment for cleanliness and damage; discard or repair items as needed.
• Pre-soak, scrub, rinse, dry, and polish glassware manually when required; assemble / disassemble setups for cleaning.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of glassware washing and sterilization areas. Ensure all work surfaces, sinks, racks, trays are kept sanitized.
• Document usage of supplies and detergents; restock cleaning agents, autoclave tape, filters, etc.
• Transport glassware and materials to designated laboratories; deliver correspondence and mail as needed.
• Support departmental facilities operations by picking up and delivering correspondence, mail, and other items.
• Perform routine maintenance of washers, autoclaves, and related equipment : cleaning filters, checking gaskets, lubricating parts; report malfunctions.
• Follow safety protocols : proper use of PPE (gloves, eye protection, lab coat), handling chemicals, biologicals, or hazardous materials; dispose of waste properly.
• Maintain sterilization records to ensure compliance.
• Assist with training new staff or students in glassware cleaning and autoclave procedures.
• Occasionally move heavy loads and glassware carts; open and close large autoclave doors safely.
• Perform general laboratory cleaning and organizational tasks.
• Track billing details and submit required documentation.
• Order and maintain laboratory supply inventory.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Two years of college or a completed A.A. program with an emphasis in chemistry, biology or physics or a completed animal husbandry program. One year of related experience, or equivalent in education, training and / or experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience using industrial washers and autoclaves (6+ months strongly preferred).

Other Requirements

• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow both written and verbal instructions carefully.
• Good physical stamina : ability to stand / walk for extended periods; lift / move glassware and carts; bend, reach, twist occasionally.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to work independently.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.