Graduate Assistant for Environmental Science and Engineering Department (Teaching and Research)

Gannon University•Erie, PA

About The Position

The Graduate Assistant will support the Environmental Science and Engineering Department through laboratory preparation, instructional support, departmental laboratory operations, outreach activities, and general program support. Responsibilities may include preparing laboratory spaces and materials for courses, maintaining and organizing field and laboratory equipment, assisting faculty with hands-on learning activities, supporting outreach and recruitment events, and helping with departmental operations related to student engagement and program visibility. Students in this position will demonstrate strong communication skills, clearly and effectively communicating with faculty, staff, students, and external visitors. They will also demonstrate professionalism, including punctuality, reliability, respect, and accountability, and will prioritize and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.

Requirements

Full-time enrollment in the M.S. Program in ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & MANAGEMENT or a similar graduate program
An undergraduate degree in an appropriate science or engineering discipline
General chemistry coursework or experience performing wet chemistry tests
Must have a driver’s license
Must be able to support and promote the University’s Mission

Responsibilities

Prepare laboratory spaces, materials, supplies, and equipment for environmental science and engineering laboratory courses, ensuring all setups meet established safety standards and protocols.
Set up and assist faculty with instructional laboratories, demonstrations, field activities, and hands-on learning experiences while adhering to safety guidelines.
Maintain, organize, calibrate, and operate field and laboratory instruments used to measure environmental parameters in accordance with safety and operational procedures.
Support department laboratory operations, including inventory tracking, equipment organization, supply checks, cleaning/resetting laboratory spaces, and basic troubleshooting, while maintaining a safe working environment.
Prepare chemical solutions and perform wet chemistry tests as needed for instructional laboratories, demonstrations, or departmental activities, following proper chemical handling and safety procedures.
Enter, clean, organize, and summarize data using Excel spreadsheets or other applicable software for course, laboratory, outreach, or departmental needs.
Understand and practice laboratory safety protocols, chemical hygiene procedures, and safe handling of equipment and materials, and assist in promoting a culture of safety within the laboratory environment.
Assist with outreach, recruitment, and student engagement activities, including open houses, high school visits, campus events, environmental demonstrations, summer programs, and department/program events.
Support faculty and staff with departmental projects, communication materials, event preparation, and student engagement initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned within the scope, responsibility, and requirements of the position.