Technician III - Food Science

Details

Posted: 27-Mar-24

Location: Ithaca, New York

Type: Full-time

Salary: Open

Categories:

Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: 3-80212

Technician III - Food Science

Technician III - Alcaine Lab
Department of Food Science
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Ithaca, NY

As an individual contributor you will model and support a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and wellbeing and continually seek to understand how your role, behaviors, and actions impact the success of this culture.

Position Summary

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University's second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy and environmental resources; and social, physical and economic well-being.

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is a pioneering practitioner of purpose-driven science and Cornell University's second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy and environmental resources; and social, physical and economic well-being. Since our founding, we have been evolving to meet the changing needs of our world. As our areas of study have diversified, we have established top-ranked programs and over 20 majors in community and rural development, environment and natural resources, food and nutrition, applied economics, agriculture, international programs and life sciences. It is vital to us that we match the excellence of our science with the generosity of our spirit. We want to leave the world better than we found it, so we seek out those not simply driven to master their discipline, but passionate about doing so to serve the public good. CALS is fundamentally invested in improving the lives of people, their environments and their communities both in New York state and around the world.

In keeping with Cornell's Land Grant Mission to create and apply knowledge with a public purpose, the Department of Food Science strives to apply the principles of science and engineering to ensure the nutritional value, safety and quality of foods in the United States and around the globe. Our programs integrate the disciplines of chemistry, biology, nutrition, physiology, biotechnology and engineering to ensure that all people have access to healthy, affordable food. Our faculty, staff and students are making a difference in the lives of people throughout the world.

As a team member in the Alcaine Research Group, this role will provide technical support in a research microbiology laboratory studying the microbial and enzymatic constituents of dairy foods. Responsibilities include bacterial cell culture, bacteriophage propagation, chemical and physical analysis of dairy products, processing and manufacturer of dairy products, and molecular characterization of bacterial isolates using PCR-based methods and DNA sequencing. Bacterial isolates may include foodborne and zoonotic pathogens. Further responsibilities include media preparation, equipment maintenance, ordering of supplies, database maintenance and data entry and analysis as required. This team member will also help with laboratory maintenance and management, organize laboratory workflow, and assist with training and supervision of undergraduate and graduate students. Prepare reports for outside customers and communicate effectively with constituents within and outside the university.

This job provides a unique opportunity to work in a fast paced environment and to acquire expertise in a wide range of techniques. Position will be located in the brand new state of the art food science building on the Cornell campus.

One year term appointment with possible extension.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Relocation assistance will not be provided for this position.

Required Qualifications:

• Associates degree or equivalent in microbiology, biology, food science, genetics, cell biology or related field.
• Minimum of 1 year and less than 2 years practical experience in microbiology, and/or molecular biology.
• Visual concentration and manual dexterity are required.
• Must be well organized and detail oriented.
• Must be willing and able to work with hazardous chemicals and biohazards.
• Ability to lift 20-50 pounds.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license. Driver check will be conducted.
• Must be able to occasionally work irregular hours.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft word, Excel, PowerPoint, and e-mail.
• Experience in collection of data and preparation of summaries and final reports.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop effective working relationships with a wide variety of students, faculty, staff, and outside clientele.
• Ability to create an inclusive, high-quality and respectful work environment both in a team setting and independently to achieve departmental and university goals.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in microbiology, biology, food science, genetics, cell biology or related field
• Specific experience in molecular biology, bacteriology, dairy product testing, fermentation, yogurt/beer/cheese production, and/or aseptic techniques preferred.
• Proficiency in the use and maintenance of a range of laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, thermocyclers, enzyme assays, microscopes, etc.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and guidelines.
• Prior experience training and supervising undergraduate and graduate students.
• Experience with Microsoft Access, SQL server, and html applications.

University Job Title:

Technician III

Job Family:

Technical

Level:

C

Pay Rate Type:

Hourly

Pay Range:

$22.00 - $24.46

Remote Option Availability:

Fully Onsite

Company:

Contract College

Contact Name:

Joan Olson

Job Titles and Pay Ranges:

Non-Union Positions

Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience

• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position

• Unique applicable skills

• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)

Union Positions

Current Employees:

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Notice to Applicants:

EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

2024-03-25