Teaching Support Specialist
Hyde Park Campus
Department
PSD Physics: Teaching Support
About the Department
The Department of Physics at The University of Chicago was established in 1893 by A. A. Michaelson. As then, the Physics Department continues to prides itself on cross-disciplinary research which is carried out over several multi-disciplinary institutes and centers: the Enrico Fermi Institute, the James Franck Institute, the Institute for Molecular Engineering, the Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics, the Kadanoff Center for Theoretical Physics, and the Computation Institute. The Physics Department values the benefits that diversity brings to life and science. We are committed to building and maintaining an inclusive environment that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry encouraging diverse perspectives, intellectual engagement and exchange.
Job Summary
The job of the lecture demonstrator is to provide demonstrations of physics phenomena and other classroom support for the faculty of the physics department. The successful candidate will be responsible for all facets of the lecture demonstration operation while working alongside the instructional lab staff to support the departments teaching mission.
Responsibilities
Works with faculty to provide lecture demonstration support, including the following: consulting with and advising faculty on suitable demonstrations, setting up and testing requested demonstrations before lectures, operating demonstrations during lecture when requested, and removing apparatus at the conclusion of lecture.
Works within tight time constraints, often with overlapping faculty or lectures.
Maintains and improves existing demonstrations and their documentation and maintains a lecture demonstration website and catalog of digital photos, videos, and associated media.
Conducts research and development of new demonstrations, both in response to faculty requests and on their own initiative.
Cares for and oversees the lecture facilities, including the following: providing support for and solving general audio/visual issues; recommending purchases of lecture/teaching facility equipment such as computers, software, technical apparatus, and supplies; and identifying building maintenance problems related to lecture facilities.
Supports department outreach programs and special events.
Acts as a resource for and instructs faculty on the proper usage of technical scientific apparatus. Uses best practices and laboratory knowledge to promote safety in handling hazardous equipment and materials.
Provides support for and solves general audio/visual issues. Recommends purchases of computers, software, and technical apparatus and supplies. Identifies building maintenance problems.
Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
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Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
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Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in physics or closely related field
Master’s degree or higher
Experience:
The overall roles and responsibilities will be shaped by the strengths and interests of the individual. We are particularly interested in candidates will skills or experience in one or more of the following areas:
Machine shop (e.g. metalwork, woodwork, 3D printing, laser cutting)
Engineering design
Electronic repair and circuit design
Computer programming
Audio/video production and editing
Teaching pedagogy
Preferred Competencies
Strong knowledge of typical first year physics curriculum including classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves, and optics.
Ability to safely work with physics laboratory equipment such as high and low voltage power supplies, oscilloscopes, function generators, cryogenics, gas cylinders, lasers, radioactive sources, etc.
Ability to repair and maintain scientific apparatus, including older homemade equipment.
Ability to work standing up for extended times and move moderately heavy equipment.
Ability to respond on short notice and work in stressful situations
Ability to work independently in a self-directed manner as well as in a group environment
Strong organizational skills.
Technical competence in electronics and computer interfaces.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (required)
Reference Contact Information (required)
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Academic Affairs
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Frequency
Monthly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
