Work-Study Student Assistant – Sciences Department
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Position Details
Position Information
Working Title Work-Study Student Assistant – Sciences Department
Position Status Part Time
Department School of Health Sciences
General Summary The Work-Study Student Assistant in the Sciences Department will provide support in laboratory settings, assist faculty and staff with various administrative tasks, and help maintain the department's equipment and resources. This position will work mostly with Biology but may also assist Chemistry, Agriculture, and Geology. No prior experience with Science is necessary but is helpful. You will be trained in all safety and laboratory procedures and thus need no prior lab experience. This position is an excellent opportunity for students pursuing careers in science or education to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic academic environment. The role will involve assisting in lab preparation, organizing materials, supporting student learning, and helping ensure the smooth operation of the department's facilities.
Specific Position Duties Laboratory Support:
Assist in the setup and breakdown of science lab experiments, ensuring
that all equipment, materials, and safety supplies are prepared before and
after class sessions.
Help maintain cleanliness and organization in laboratories, including the
proper storage of chemicals, biological materials, and equipment.
Support students during lab sessions by providing guidance on lab
procedures and ensuring safe practices are followed.
Equipment & Materials Management:
Assist with inventory management of lab equipment and supplies, including
tracking usage, restocking, and ensuring that materials are ordered when
necessary.
Help with the calibration, maintenance, and organization of scientific
equipment such as microscopes, balances, and other instruments.
Ensure all safety equipment (e.g., goggles, gloves, first aid kits) is
readily available and in good condition.
Administrative Support:
Help the department with routine office tasks such as organizing files,
managing course materials, and preparing documents for upcoming classes or
events.
Assist faculty with photocopying, scanning, and preparing teaching
materials (e.g., handouts, presentations, or lab instructions).
Support the department's communication efforts by answering general
inquiries, directing emails, and assisting with event planning or
coordination.
Student Support:
Serve as a peer mentor or tutor during office hours, helping fellow
students with science coursework, lab techniques, or studying for exams.
Help organize study sessions or review materials for students needing
additional academic support.
Assist with guiding new students through lab safety protocols, class
policies, and scientific procedures.
Safety & Compliance:
Help ensure that all laboratory safety guidelines are followed, including
proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
Assist with maintaining up-to-date safety data sheets (SDS) and
compliance documentation for lab chemicals and equipment.
Participate in regular safety checks and assist in emergency preparedness
drills or protocols.
Special Projects (as needed):
Assist with ongoing department projects, such as organizing science fairs,
supporting faculty research, or preparing exhibits for campus events.
Help with preparing and distributing student surveys or feedback forms to
evaluate lab activities or teaching methods.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours and eligible for the work-
study program.
Strong interest in one or more areas of science (biology, chemistry,
physics, environmental science, etc.) and enthusiasm for supporting a
science-focused academic environment.
Ability to communicate effectively with students, faculty, and staff, both
verbally and in writing.
Strong attention to detail and ability to keep lab materials and equipment
well-organized.
Ability to assist with troubleshooting minor lab issues and providing
timely solutions.
Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of students and faculty
in a collaborative academic setting.
Preferred Qualifications
Annual Salary
Hiring Range
Work Hours
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number S00240P
Job Open Date
Quick Link for Internal Postings https: // jobs.odessa.edu/postings/13131
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