At a Glance
- Tasks: Support lab preparation, maintain equipment, and assist with experiments in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Widener University, a dynamic and inclusive educational institution.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience while working part-time in a vibrant academic setting.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for growth and learning in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in chemistry labs and support innovative research.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related field; lab experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 £ per hour.
Widener University is currently seeking a part-time Laboratory Assistant in the College of Arts and Science, Department of Chemistry. This role provides support to the laboratory preparation staff. This position is hands-on and supports an active laboratory environment. This is a part-time position for the entire year (25 hours in Fall, 25 hours in Spring, and 20 hours in Summer) to cover Chemistry labs offered in the summer as well as the academic year. Reporting to the Laboratory Manager and CHO, the Laboratory Assistant role involves a work environment which is fast-paced, with frequent interruptions. Instructions are often delivered verbally, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and meet time-sensitive deadlines is essential. The Laboratory Assistant contributes to the efficient operation of teaching and research laboratories by supporting faculty, maintaining laboratory spaces and equipment, and preparing materials needed for instructional and scientific activities. The Laboratory Assistant ensures safe, organized, and well-stocked lab environments that enable high-quality student learning and faculty research.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):
- Essential Duties:
- Stocks laboratory supplies and maintains an organized, clean, and orderly workspace.
- Performs general lab upkeep and sanitation to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.
- Assists with scientific tests, experiments, and analyses under the supervision of faculty or laboratory staff.
- Maintains laboratory equipment by cleaning, calibrating, and checking functionality in accordance with safety and operational protocols.
- Follows all laboratory safety procedures and supports compliance with departmental and university safety standards.
- Secondary Responsibilities:
- Works with science department faculty and staff to support projects or assignments as needed.
- Assists faculty with specialized laboratory tasks such as preparing Drosophila food or supporting animal care needs.
- Completes miscellaneous errands and operational tasks that support daily laboratory functions.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):
- Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related science field.
- One year of related experience.
- An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered.
- Ability to perform precise, repetitive manual tasks.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to perform basic calculations to support solution preparation, measurements, and laboratory setup.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and willingness to follow all safety protocols.
- Proficiency with applicable software such as Microsoft Office Suite.
- Preferred:
- Experience in a laboratory setting.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks with dexterity.
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. regularly when moving equipment, supplies, or specimens between laboratory spaces.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and move quickly to set up, reset, and transition laboratory spaces in a timely manner.
- Ability to safely work around hazardous materials and laboratory equipment, requiring adequate sensory abilities including smell, vision, and hearing and excellent hand–eye coordination.
- Ability to be mobile between workstation and various campus buildings and all locations in the building.
- Ability to bend, reach, and maintain balance to perform tasks safely in a lab.
- Ability to handle and work around materials that may be extremely hot or cold, following proper safety procedures.
- Must be able to work in settings involving exposure to hazardous materials, following all safety protocols.
- Flexibility to arrive early or stay later based on laboratory schedules, equipment needs, or operational requirements, with occasional weekend or holiday hours when support for lab functions is needed.
- Reliable transportation is preferred for periodic errands to obtain supplies for departmental use.
Laboratory Assistant , Chemistry, Part-time in Chester employer: Widener University
Widener University is an excellent employer for those seeking a part-time Laboratory Assistant role, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters personal and professional growth. With a commitment to civic engagement and experiential learning, employees benefit from hands-on experience in a fast-paced laboratory setting while contributing to meaningful educational outcomes. Located in Chester, PA, the university provides a supportive atmosphere where diverse backgrounds are celebrated, ensuring that all staff can thrive in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Assistant , Chemistry, Part-time in Chester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the lab environment before applying! If you can, visit the department or chat with current staff. This will give you a feel for the pace and culture, plus it shows your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to faculty or staff in the Chemistry department on LinkedIn or through university events. A friendly chat can make a big difference when it comes to getting noticed.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills during interviews! Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience in labs, especially any specific tasks you've done that relate to the role. We want to see how you can contribute right away!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Widener University.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Assistant , Chemistry, Part-time in Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Chemistry:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for chemistry shine through! We want to see how your background and experiences align with the role of Laboratory Assistant. Share specific examples that highlight your love for the subject and any hands-on experiences you've had.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this position. We’re looking for candidates who can manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment, so highlight your organisational skills and any relevant lab experience. Don’t forget to mention your ability to follow safety protocols!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to understand. This will help us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our university there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Widener University
✨Know Your Chemistry Basics
Brush up on your chemistry knowledge, especially the practical aspects relevant to lab work. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of laboratory safety procedures and how you would apply them in a fast-paced environment.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires strong organisational abilities, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or maintained an orderly workspace. Highlighting these skills will show that you're ready for the demands of the job.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This position involves working closely with faculty and staff, so be ready to talk about your experience collaborating in a team setting. Share specific instances where you supported others in achieving a common goal, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to perform precise tasks and follow protocols. You might be asked how you would handle specific lab scenarios, so think through your responses and be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
