Assistant Sample Control Officer (SRA 2 NEX)

This position provides support to the Sample Control Officer (SCO) and overall laboratory operation. Throughout the year the lab receives approximately 1000 raw agricultural commodities (RAC) from collaborating field researchers throughout the IR-4 program. Under the supervision of the SCO, this position will be primarily focused on the receiving, processing and storing of the these samples along with the appropriate documentation. Additional duties include providing assistance to other analysts with the quantitation of pesticide residues in RAC samples by gas or liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometers. #CA-JM

All of the aforementioned functions must be performed following U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), EPA's 860 Guidelines, UC Davis's Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines, and the IR-4 Western Region Laboratory's Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

Apply By Date: 9/26/25

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• No Certification required
• Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
• Degree (BS) in chemistry or biochemistry
• 2-5 years of experience working in an analytical laboratory operating under Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Demonstrated knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices, Federal Regulations 40, Part 160, safety guidelines as required by campus and OSHA regulations. Proven ability to implement and follow Standard Operating Procedures and project protocols. Knowledge of the many analytical techniques used to obtain homogeneous samples, and extraction techniques used to remove pesticides and related chemicals of interest from these samples. Proven skill and ability to use basic laboratory equipment for sample processing and preparation (Hobart food processors, Robo Coupe processors, homogenizer/blender, centrifuges, water baths and analytical balances). Knowledge of Agilent GC-MS and LC-MS/MS instrumentation using Agilent MassHunter software.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree (BS) in Environmental Toxicology
• 2-5 years of experience with Quality Assurance critical phase inspections on work conducted in the laboratory
• Ability to troubleshoot various equipment (mechanical/electrical) utilized in sample processing (Hobart, Robot Coupe, etc). Demonstrated understanding of physical requirements for laboratory operation (lifting 50 lbs). Ability to anticipate needs and take proper steps to maintain smooth operation. Proven ability to use library facilities to maintain current knowledge of field. From up-to-date knowledge and personal creativity, ability to attain insight to identify solutions to problems encountered with experimental procedures and equipment. Having personal characteristics which allow for relating easily with a wide variety of personalities while assisting, instructing or simply interacting. Actively tries to create a positive work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• 70% - Assistant Sample Control Officer
• 30% - General Laboratory Operation and Sample Analysis

Department Overview

The Interregional Research Project No.4 (IR-4 Project) was established in 1963 by Directors of the State Agricultural Experiment Stations, located at Land Grant Universities throughout the United States, to obtain residue tolerances for minor use pesticides on food and feed crops. Since 1974, The Western Region Headquarters of the IR-4 program, which serves 14 states, has been housed in the Department of Environmental Toxicology. The IR-4 Western Region Laboratory researches and analyzes pesticide residues projects from all IR-4 regions. The objective of the position is to be the "Staff Research Associate II" and to provide technical expertise for laboratory. This position is primarily housed at the IR-4 Laboratory Facility located at the Center for Health and the Environment (CHE).

Department Specific Job Scope

This position mainly serves the IR-4 Program but may be asked to assist with some related departmental functions, as needed.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $28.88-$46.46/hour
• Salary Frequency: Bi-Weekly
• Salary Grade: 108
• UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEX
• UC Job Code: 009617
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Career Appointment
• Percentage of Time: 60% Variable
• Shift (Work Schedule): M-F, 8-5 (Variable)
• Location: Davis, CA
• Union Representation: Yes - RX
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

* High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
* UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
* Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
* Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
* WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
* On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
* Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
* Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
* Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

• Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Work Environment

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.

This position requires routine work with, or be in areas where hazardous materials are present, specific hazards are: small amounts of pesticides and their residues, and related substances, moderate amounts of toxic, flammable, carcinogenic and/or caustic chemicals, and handling of dry ice. The use of contact lens is prohibited (due to the potential reactions with organic solvent vapors). The incumbent must be able to transport samples to freezers located on various parts of the campus and run errands in and around campus via the use of a motor vehicle. The position requires lifting up to 50 lbs., being able to read small printed labels and lines on volumetric glassware, performing exacting laboratory procedures and working in confined spaces under cold temperatures (<-20 C) The incumbent is required to wear all necessary and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the task at hand.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• N/A

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks