Rockford University seeks a detail-oriented and organized professional to serve as the Lab Manager and Administrative Assistant. This dual-role position is responsible for maintaining safe, efficient, and well-equipped biology and chemistry laboratory environments while providing administrative support to the College of Science, Mathematics, and Nursing.
The successful candidate will oversee laboratory operations, inventory management, equipment maintenance, and safety compliance, while also supporting faculty and academic leadership with administrative, scheduling, communication, and event-related responsibilities.
Essential Responsibilities
Laboratory Management (Approximately 30 Hours/Week)
- Prepare, set up, and clean laboratory spaces, equipment, and materials for instructional use.
- Safely prepare chemical solutions and maintain laboratory readiness.
- Order, receive, store, and inventory laboratory supplies, chemicals, and equipment.
- Monitor laboratory budgets and assist with expense tracking.
- Maintain organized, safe, and compliant laboratory and stockroom environments.
- Coordinate routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment.
- Ensure compliance with chemical handling, storage, hazardous waste disposal, and laboratory safety regulations.
- Assist with training and supervision of student laboratory workers.
Administrative Support (Approximately 5 Hours/Week)
- Provide administrative support to the Dean and science, mathematics, and nursing faculty.
- Assist with scheduling, correspondence, document preparation, and departmental communications.
- Support community outreach and engagement initiatives.
- Attend monthly college meetings and record meeting minutes.
- Submit and monitor facility work orders and coordinate building-related needs with Facilities.
- Support Alpha Helix and other student engagement activities, including meetings and special events.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple responsibilities.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard office technology.
- Commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Education and Experience
- Associate degree in Biology, Chemistry, Laboratory Science, Office Administration, or a related field preferred; or
- Equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience.
- 1-3 of laboratory support, administrative support, or related experience preferred.
- Experience working in an educational, scientific, or healthcare setting is a plus.
To apply
Please submit resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu . Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position if filled. This fulltime, exempt opportunity offers an hourly salary of $18.47.
Our Benefits: Supporting You Every Step of the Way
We believe in taking care of our employees, which is why we offer a competitive benefits package that goes above and beyond. Here’s how we support your health, happiness, and future:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you and your family stay healthy.
- Savings for Health & Dependent Care: Flexible savings options to manage healthcare and dependent care costs.
- Financial Protection: Life, AD&D, and disability insurance for peace of mind when life throws you a curveball.
- Retirement Security: 403(b) plan with employer contributions to help you build a secure future.
- Personal Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Program, offering resources for both personal and professional needs.
- Education Benefits: Tuition remission for full-time and part-time employees, their spouses, and dependents. We offer tuition remission both at Rockford University and other partnering colleges through a tuition exchange.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off to help you recharge and spend quality time with loved ones.
At Rockford University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that values a well-rounded workforce and community. We welcome candidates who, through their professional experience, contribute to excellence in their work and enhance our institutional mission.
