LLO XRF-Core Scanning Laboratory Manager

Job Code and Title: Research Pro 2 - Research lab, 8352RL
Working Title: LLO XRF-Core Scanning Laboratory Manager
Large Lakes Observatory, DeptID 10351
Reports to: Erik Brown
Empl Class: Civil Service, 12 months, 100% time
Salary range: $22.19-$36.76/hr, based on experience
Position number: 246006

Job description

Operate XRF-core scanner at the University of Minnesota Duluth as a national multi-user facility as part of the NSF-supported Continental Scientific Drilling Facility (CSD). Research focuses on the chemical evaluation of sediment cores. Laboratory responsibilities include operating, calibrating, troubleshooting, and repairing (in consultation with manufacturer's service engineers) sophisticated analytical instrumentation. Administrative responsibilities include interfacing with outside users, scheduling, training and overseeing visitors, data management, and invoicing users. The position requires interfacing with other CSD personnel, some outreach to the user community, and regular travel between Duluth and CSD in Minneapolis for core transport.

Duties

Instrument operation (30%)

• Operate and maintain ITRAX XRF Core Scanner.
• Troubleshoot and repair ITRAX, in conjunction with the manufacturer's service engineers.

Data management (40%)

• Evaluate data for quality assurance.
• Process XRF spectra to integrate peak areas using proprietary software.
• Maintain backup database, interfacing with databases set up at CSD.
• Develop or design databases in collaboration with CSD.

Laboratory oversight (10%)

• Oversee laboratory operations and safety, working with the Department of Radiation Safety and
• Environmental Health and Safety
• Coordinate organization of LLO core locker.
• Oversee transfer of sediment core from CSD to LLO and back.
• Oversee undergraduate student employees.

Interaction with users (10%)

• Address queries from potential users.
• Schedule instrument time.
• Work with students and outside visitors.
• Provide data to users and address their questions.
• Outreach to user community, through communication (email, telephone, web) and through conference attendance.

Finances (5%)

• Monitor instrument usage for billing.
• Oversee budgets, handling rate development, invoicing, and purchasing, working with LLO administrative staff.

Other (5%)

• Participate in LLO events and activities as needed.
• Assist in fieldwork as needed.
• Other duties as assigned

Visa Language: Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

In-person work environment.

Required qualifications

• BA/BS degree plus at least two years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least six years.

Desired qualifications

• Master's degree in geology, chemistry or related fields.
• Experience troubleshooting analytical instrumentation.
• Experience with instrument control software.
• Experience handling large databases.
• Experience with a range of computer software.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to lift and carry 25 pounds

Pay Range: $22.19- $36.76 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

A Resume and Cover Letter will be required to be considered for this position.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.