Instrument SpecialistVillanova University

The Instrument Specialist manages and coordinates resources related to instrumentation and equipment used for research and instructional labs. This includes, but is not limited to, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of equipment, the design/codesign/fabrication of one-of-a-kind instruments, mechanical and electronic parts, and CAD models, as well as the preparation of drawings for publications, presentations and vendors. The Instrument Specialist supports instrument-driven research and instruction, as well as publication and grant-writing activity of the department.

Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University’s mission and values.

1. Instrument Support, Development, Maintenance, and Repair: Develop and/or modify scientific instruments. Maintain and repair various laboratory equipment and instrumentation including (but not limited to) gas and liquid chromatographs, melting point apparatus, spectrophotometers, hot plate stirrers, vacuum pumps, centrifuges, lab ovens, shakers, incubators, and Vernier instructional instrumentation. Instrument support will require familiarity with software installation, instrument configuration, etc. and working with various information technology (IT) units on campus. Works with faculty, staff (including the instrument scientist and the director of the NMR lab), instrument manufacturers, and managed maintenance provider(s) to troubleshoot instruments (both hardware and software), and coordinate service calls and preventative maintenance visits. Existing lab equipment must be repaired as needed, and new lab equipment identified/evaluated for purchase.

2. Fabrication: Fabricate specialized items in the machine shop to support research instructional, and research labs, as well as associated equipment. Operate and maintain equipment. Train users as appropriate.

3. Manage Cryogens, Gases, and Associated Equipment: Order cryogens, gases and regulators, coordinate/replace gas cylinders / Dewars in instructional and research laboratories, install fittings, tubing, regulators and connections as needed.

4. Project Coordination: Coordinate various capital projects with the building superintendent and the Facilities Management Office (FMO) on site requirements for instructional and research laboratories, supplement facilities management with self-installations when needed.

5. Equipment & Part Ordering and Installation: Order miscellaneous equipment, non-stocked repair parts, and specialized items for instructional and research laboratories. Order and install security devices on department equipment.

6.Supervisory:Supervise part-time student help as needed.

7.Other: Perform additional duties and assist with special projects as assigned.

Work Skills(e.g. written and verbal communication skills):

Specific Job Knowledge(e.g., knowledge of principles and procedures related to field and area):

Work Skills (e.g. written and verbal communication skills):

Specific Job Knowledge (e.g., knowledge of principles and procedures related to field and area):

Working Conditions/Environment (conditions, if known, which may impact the incumbent working in this position):

Applications must be submitted online at jobs.villanova.edu. The review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

A complete application includes:
1. Cover letter
2. Resume/curriculum vitae
3. Three letters of recommendation: Applications must include contact information for 3 references. References will be contacted only if applicant is considered a finalist.

This position falls within salaried grade 14 and the range is $57,200-71,500. The final salary will be determined with consideration of several factors including the selected candidate’s qualifications, department budget availability, market data, and internal equity.