Chemistry Lab Assistant - Student Employment

Saint Xavier University•Chicago, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Chemistry Lab Assistant works with the Chemistry faculty and Laboratory Coordinators and learns to handle the logistics, preparation, and safety of instructional laboratories. This role is vital for ensuring that undergraduate chemistry experiments run efficiently, safely, and cleanly. It provides an excellent hands-on opportunity for students to gain practical laboratory experience, reinforce their chemistry knowledge, and learn industry-standard chemical hygiene practices. This student employment opportunity supports the development of skills aligned with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Career Readiness Competencies. Through this role, students will strengthen the following competencies: Communication: Students build communication skills by practicing clear, respectful, and professional verbal, written, and interpersonal communication in a workplace setting. Critical Thinking: Students build critical thinking skills by applying judgment, solving problems, prioritizing tasks, maintaining accuracy, and using feedback to improve their work. Teamwork: Students build teamwork skills by collaborating with supervisors, staff, and peers to support department goals, assist others, and contribute to a positive work environment. Technology: Students build technology skills by using department systems, software, digital tools, equipment, or university platforms to complete tasks accurately and efficiently.

Requirements

MUST BE A STUDENT AT SAINT XAVIER UNIVERSITY
Must be Federal Work Study E ligible
Must Include a Resume and Cover Letter
Major or Minor in Chemistry.

Nice To Haves

Responsibilities increase with developing abilities

Responsibilities

Accurately measures, weighs, and mix chemicals to prepare stock solutions and reagents for scheduled experiments.
Set up of laboratory apparatus, glassware, and analytical instruments before classes begin.
Aliquot and distribute chemicals into proper, clearly labeled containers at student benches.
Read and review course lab manuals and prep sheets ahead of time to verify inventory needs.
Clean and restock laboratory glassware and equipment after student use.
Maintain the overall cleanliness and order of the chemistry stockroom, chemical storage areas, and main student laboratories.
Clean and calibrate laboratory balances and ensure balances remain chemical-free.
Monitor inventory of consumable supplies, reporting shortages to the Lab Coordinator
Strictly abide by institutional safety procedures and policies outlined in the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
Assist with the proper collection, labeling, and temporary storage of chemical waste.
Safely handle gas cylinders, empty glass waste bins, and maintain safety equipment stations.
Identify and immediately report broken glassware or malfunctioning hardware to the Lab Coordinator.
Help guide students in the correct, safe setup of their laboratory equipment during active sessions.
Help faculty locate supplies and restock reagents mid-session when needed.