Skip to main contentSkip to footer
COC Logo Round

Position Number: CLA21-399

College of the Canyons
Santa Clarita Community College District

announces an employment opportunity for

Instructional Laboratory Technician (Earth and Space Sciences)(72.5%)

A Part-Time Classified Represented Position

A Non-Faculty Position Working 29 Hours Per Week

Review Date: December 6, 2021

This position is a high priority for our District for the 2021-2022 year and is contingent upon continue available district, grant and state funding.

The Santa Clarita Community College District/College of the Canyons is seeking a part-time Instructional Laboratory Technician (Earth and Space Sciences)(72.5%) staff member supporting the Earth and Space Sciences department in the Instruction division. 

Who We Are

The Santa Clarita Community District is committed to achieving educational equity for all students. As presented in our District Strategic Plan, which focuses on Access, Engagement, and Success, “Equity, inclusion, and diversity are not goals in themselves, but ideologies embedded in all actions and planning across all departments and functions of our college and its two campuses.” These areas of focus demonstrate a resolve to focus on student success and confirm that we are at the forefront of change with integrated planning efforts that both evolve and anticipate the needs of our students. We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences — fostering healthy inclusion through inquiry, shared dialogue and reflection to ensure that we promote a sense of community, collegiality and cooperation. When you join our team at the Santa Clarita Community College District, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, creative, flexible, innovative and equity-focused community that engages students, each other, and the community in scholarly inquiry, creative partnerships, and the application of knowledge and success.  

The College and the District

College of the Canyons is part of the Santa Clarita Community College District and is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), enrolling approximately 32,000 students each academic year. College of the Canyons has a diverse student population that reflects our focus on enhancing the educational attainment and economic well-being of the community we proudly serve. Detailed information about our student population, including data related to student success, can be found on the College of Canyons Office of Institutional Research, Planning and Institutional Effectiveness (IRPIE) website. Additionally, College of the Canyons, was recently honored as a 2021 Bellwether College Consortium award winner, was honored in 2018 and 2019 with the Champion of Higher Education award, was ranked #1 in Los Angeles County during 2019 as the best two-year college for adult learners, and is rated #1 in Los Angeles County for completion rates by college-prepared students. It is distinguished as one of the top transfer institutions in Los Angeles County.  

Who We Want

We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, and orientations. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate must be an equity-minded individual committed to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students and community partners who share our commitment to closing equity gaps. The Santa Clarita Community College District seeks leaders possessing a strong grounding in academic and student services programs and a thorough understanding of the primary mission of the community college. We seek employees that value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, who are conscientious risk takers and transformational leaders guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational goals. 

 

"BIG PICTURE" RESPONSIBILITY:

Reporting to and under the supervision of the Dean, Math, Sciences, and Engineering, with daily work direction provided by the department chair in conjunction with department faculty, performs a variety of technical and specialized duties related to the development, preparation, operation, and maintenance of Earth and Space Sciences department’s instructional laboratories, and related areas; orders, tracks, operates, and demonstrates the use of specialized equipment, supplies, chemicals, and instructional materials in a safe, clean, and orderly manner; provides information and technical assistance to faculty and students; works within curriculum, goals, and objectives to develop and modify existing laboratory procedures; and provides for proper disposal of waste materials in accordance with proper risk management guidelines. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Canyons Hall

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to this class.

 

  1. Assist in the operation and maintenance of an instructional laboratory and related areas. Sets up and cleans up weekly laboratory activities. Performs specialized and technical duties to assure efficient lab operations.
  2. Assists instructors in the use of a variety of equipment, materials, chemicals, and supplies in an instructional laboratory setting.
  3. Prepares chemical solutions, reagents, supplies, and other instructional materials and equipment for instructors’ demonstrations and laboratory exercises.
  4. Assists instructors in researching new lab exercises and demonstrations to support laboratory course objectives.
  5. Operates a variety of equipment typically found in Physical Science, Geology, Geography, Oceanography, and Astronomy Laboratories.
  6. Orders, receives and stores supplies, materials, and equipment; maintains inventories, conducts catalog searches and contacts vendors or local sources to purchase supplies and materials. Transfers necessary supplies between the Valencia and Canyon Country Campuses as needed.
  7. Maintains the laboratory environment in a safe, clean, and orderly condition; assures the safe and proper handling of chemicals, equipment, and instrumentation. Provides for proper disposal of waste materials in accordance with risk management guidelines.
  8. Understands and implements safety protocols and procedures.
  9. Adjusts, maintains, and performs minor repair to equipment; reports major facility and IT repair needs according to established procedures.
  10. Prepares and maintains various records and reports related to laboratory operations, personnel, equipment repair, inventory and financial records.
  11. Trains and provides work direction to college assistants and adult hourly workers as assigned; assists in coordinating laboratory duties and assignments.
  12. Performs a variety of clerical duties and responds to questions from dean, faculty, staff, students, campus community, and general public.
  13. Inventories, organizes, and maintains the Earth and Space Sciences department’s rock, mineral, fossil, and map collections.
  14. Constructs physical science and earth sciences demonstration models and equipment.
  15. Performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience

Minimum two years responsible experience working with the public or working in an educational, tutorial, or laboratory setting. Additional years of education may substitute for experience requirement on a year for year basis.  One year will equal 30 semester units. 

Education

Education equivalent to an Associate’s degree (60 semester units) from an accredited institution in a related field. College coursework must include successful completion of a minimum of 10 semester units of undergraduate course work in physical science, physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, meteorology, oceanography, physical geography, or environmental science.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Knowledge of rock, mineral, and fossil specimens and identification procedures.
  2. Experience working in a physical sciences or earth sciences instructional laboratory setting.
  3. Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the assignment.

DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

Position Requires Knowledge Of: 

  1. Basic principles, procedures, and techniques used in instructional science laboratories.
  2. Health and safety practices and precautions applicable to physical and earth related sciences.
  3. A wide variety of equipment and materials used in astronomy, physical sciences and earth sciences instructional laboratories.
  4. Fundamentals of laboratory organization, inventory, and management.
  5. Collecting quotes and entering requisitions for supply and equipment purchases.
  6. Oral and written communication skills. 

Position Requires Ability To: 

  1. Follow complex instructions to prepare for and complete the set-up and break down of instructional laboratories.
  2. Use initiative and problem-solving skills in carrying out responsibilities.
  3. Operate various instruments used in physical and earth science instructional laboratories.
  4. Develop or modify laboratory procedures in cooperation with faculty and staff.
  5. Operate, adapt, and maintain scientific equipment routinely used in instructional laboratories.
  6. Keep detailed, precise records and handle correspondence effectively.
  7. Work and communicate effectively, cooperatively, and professionally with dean, faculty, students, staff, external partners, and vendors.
  8. Work varied hours, including evenings and weekends where appropriate.
  9. Demonstrate interpersonal skills using discretion, patience and courtesy.
  10. Understand and work within curriculum, goals and objectives of the Earth and Space Sciences Department.
  11. Work effectively and demonstrate currency of knowledge with computers and other forms of advanced technology utilized in providing high-quality instructional services.
  12. Demonstrate clear evidence of sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender, age, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, staff, and community.

SALARY PLACEMENT

Salary placement will be on Range 25 of Classified Represented Salary Schedule B ($3,089.95 - $5,241.75 per month as pro-rated for a 72.5% position).

Initial salary step placement for new employees is customarily at step 1, 2, or 3 ($3,089.95 /$3,277.725 /$3,472.025 as pro-rated for a 72.5% position) of this 20-step salary range; step advancement is yearly up to step 20. 

Probationary period for new Classified employees is one year. Work year is 12 calendar months. The normal workweek for this position is 29 hours per week. Paid holiday, discretionary, vacation, and sick time are provided and will be pro-rated based on hours worked. A regular work schedule will be assigned, with the ability to occasionally work a flexible schedule as needed with supervisor approval.

 

DISTRICT CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 

This is a part-time position working 29 hours per week. Part-time Classified employees working 20 to 29 hours per week are provided with a diversified program that includes medical, dental and vision insurance for employee only, disability and life insurance as well as Section 125 options.  These benefits commence on the first of the month following date of hire. Professional development opportunities are provided to all employees.  

Educational incentive program is available to Classified Represented and Confidential employees.  

RETIREMENT: Classified employees contribute to the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), a defined benefit retirement plan through the State of California.

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Sedentary position requires use of a computer and related equipment for extended periods of time; frequently exerting 10 to 20 pounds of force to move objects; communicating and providing information to others; work outside on all parts of the campus and in varying weather conditions. In the event of an emergency, employees will be relied upon to serve as emergency service workers.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

  • Successful completion of background fingerprint clearance, pre-employment physical examination (disabilities not related to the physical job will not affect the application process) and TB screening. 
  • Proof of eligibility to work in the United States and signing of loyalty oath per government codes 3100-3109.
  • Meeting applicable eligibility requirements under CalPERS or CalSTRS if you are a current or former member.
  • Board of Trustees approval.
  • Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment.
  • Position is contingent upon funding and is subject to change.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

 

Santa Clarita Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

The Santa Clarita Community College District is committed to employing qualified employees who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students.  The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and provide consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not unlawfully discriminate in providing educational or employment opportunities to any person on the basis of race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 years and over), sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status, protected medical leaves (requesting or approved for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or the California Family Rights Act), domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law  or on the basis of these perceived characteristics, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.  

Applicants who have disabilities may request that accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process by contacting the Human Resources office directly at (661) 362-3427.

Students

ABOUT THE DISTRICT

Innovative. Collaborative. Entrepreneurial. These characteristics not only define College of the Canyons, they are embodied by the faculty, staff and administrators who make this college unique among the 116 California Community Colleges.

Established in 1969, College of the Canyons is among the fastest-growing colleges in California and the nation. It is widely recognized as a model community college for enhancing student access, success and equity. Its completion rates rank among the highest in the state. The college has established a well-deserved reputation for bolstering economic development and offering innovative career technical education responsive to industry needs.

Guided by visionary leadership, the college serves a 367-square-mile area of northern Los Angeles County that includes the dynamic, growing Santa Clarita Valley. A steady influx of new residents and businesses creates a spirit of possibilities that inspires the college to be flexible, creative and attuned to the community’s evolving needs. The growing diversity of the community is mirrored by the college, which qualifies as a Latino-serving institution.

The college’s influence in the community is best illustrated by the dozens of collaborative partnerships it has forged with local school districts, government entities and service organizations. Examples include the Performing Arts Center’s K-12 Arts Education Outreach initiative, which allows thousands of children to experience the arts each year, and Academy of the Canyons, an early/middle college high school at the Valencia campus that is ranked among the top 10 percent of high schools in the nation.

With campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country, the college offers 92 associate degree programs, including 23 associate degree for transfer (AD-T) options, as well as 71 certificate programs. Classes are offered during traditional fall and spring semesters, as well as shorter, intensive summer and winter sessions. Additional educational opportunities exist at the University Center, whose four-year colleges and universities offer approximately 30 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, as well certificate and credential programs.

 

Because of the college’s commitment to meeting the needs of the community, local voters have approved two bond measures valued at more than $240 million since 2001. The college also secures substantial funds from the state and millions of dollars in grants each year that allow new, cutting-edge programs to be developed and facilities built to accommodate them. Given its commitment to growth and innovation, College of the Canyons sets a new standard for what a college can achieve. It is a vital cultural, educational and economic force in the region. Join us to discover unexpected possibilities, the freedom to innovate and an opportunity to shape the future.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:

Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications online at https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/. If you require assistance, please call the Human Resources office at (661)362-3427 or for the hearing impaired TTY/TDD Line at (661)362-5178.  Applicants may check the status of their application online and may expect to be notified within approximately 4 - 5 weeks following the Review Date as to the status of their application.

All application materials must be uploaded online or received in the Human Resources office by the end of the day on the Review Date in order to assure consideration for this position. Postmark is not acceptable for this purpose. Separate application materials must be submitted for each position applied for. Materials submitted become property of the District and will not be returned, copied, or considered for other openings.  The Human Resources office is located in the University Center, Suite #360 at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355.

Your application is not complete until the following required materials have been uploaded online or received by the Human Resources office:

  • An online District Classified application.
  • Detailed resume, which includes month/year dates of employment and descriptions of responsibilities at each employer.
  • Letter of interest (cover letter). In your letter, please address your qualifications and experience as they pertain to the job duties and the abilities section of this announcement.
  • Copies of complete and legible college transcripts clearly indicating all college units earned and any degree awarded. You can submit unofficial copies of transcripts for application purposes. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment. Please see our website for the requirements for evaluation of transcripts from foreign colleges or universities.
  • Confidential Recruitment Source Information (voluntary survey). This is voluntary and is a part of the online applicant profile, separate from the application.
  • Supplemental Questionnaire. Please answer the following questions as part of your application packet. 
  1. Do you possess education equivalent to an Associate’s degree (60 semester units) or higher from an accredited institution? (yes/no) Please provide legible copies of your college/university transcript in your application packet. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts.
  2. Describe your experience working with the public or working in an educational, tutorial, or laboratory setting. Please include employer names(s), position title(s), dates of employment, full-time or part-time status (hours per week), and your roles and responsibilities in each position. Please provide your total years of full-time equivalent experience in this field.
  3. Identify at least ten (10) semester units of coursework from your transcript in physical science, physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, paleontology, meteorology, oceanography, physical geography, or environmental science. Please include course title, units, name of educational institution, and a brief description of how that course meets this requirement. Please ensure that copies of transcripts with the coursework are submitted as part of your application materials.
  4. Please describe your experience working with equipment and instructional materials typically found in the Astronomy, Physical Science, Geology, Geography, and Oceanography laboratories.
  5. What experience have you had with maintaining inventories, conducting catalog searches, and contacting vendors to secure quality products at reasonable prices when purchasing supplies and materials for a laboratory?
  6. Briefly describe your experience promoting safety in the laboratory as well as providing for proper disposal of waste materials in accordance with risk management materials.
  7. Please describe your experience maintaining various records and reports related to laboratory operations, personnel, equipment repair, inventory, and financial records.
  8. What specific experience have you had with purchasing processes, use of electronic purchasing software (such as Colleague/Datatel), and purchase orders?
  9. Why are you interested in working at College of the Canyons in this staff position? 
  • Letter of reference are optional.

 

Please note:

  • Skills evaluation of candidates for interview may be required.
  • Travel and relocation expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.
  • Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
  • “Experience” generally refers to relevant paid experience. In some instances, unpaid experience may be counted as experience towards meeting the minimum qualifications or requirements for the position only if it entailed responsibilities substantially similar to those of relevant paid positions in the field.  It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide sufficient information and details to the Human Resources office at the time of submission of their application packet.  Details should include the organization, contact name and contact information, start and end dates, hours per week, and a list of relevant unpaid/volunteer duties or responsibilities performed.  Not all unpaid experience may qualify.  Upon offer of employment, an applicant will be required to obtain written verification(s) of any relevant unpaid/volunteer experience.
  • Current COC employees who are applying for this position: Please be aware that materials from your personnel file are not included as part of the application file; therefore, please provide the same requested application materials as any other applicant.
  • Please be aware that, should you be considered as a finalist for this position, reference checks will include current supervisor(s). 
  • Applicants are encouraged to apply online. If you need assistance with the application process, contact:

Human Resources Office

(661) 362-3427

TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178 or visit our website at

https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/

 

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all application materials are fully and correctly submitted. All materials submitted are for this position only and become the property of the District.  Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Resumes may not be submitted in lieu of the official application form.

The College is expecting to conduct initial interviews between the weeks of January 3, 2022 and January 10, 2022 and conduct final interviews between the weeks of January 10, 2022 and January 17, 2022. This is an estimated timeline, and is subject to change.  Interviews may be conducted in-person or remotely via Zoom.

Please note that the college will be closed for Winter Break from December 24, 2021 through January 2, 2022. The Human Resources Office will reopen on Monday, January 3, 2022.

Position is offered contingent on funding. We reserve the right to withdraw, extend the filing date, reopen, or delay filling this position. Recruitment may continue until the position is filled. This recruitment may be used for future vacancies.

 COC Valencia MAP