Lab Administrator

Duke University•Durham, NC

29d

About The Position

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries. Be You. At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As a Lab Assistant, you'll play a key role in creating exceptional learning experiences for students while supporting groundbreaking research. Your work will help foster an inclusive environment where curiosity and innovation thrive. Be Bold. This role is more than just managing labs-it's about shaping the future of science education. You'll ensure our teaching laboratories run smoothly, safely, and efficiently, empowering faculty and students to focus on discovery and learning.

Responsibilities

Prepare and maintain chemicals, solutions, equipment, and materials for laboratory courses and exercises.
Oversee daily lab setups, waste collection, chemical labeling, and hazardous material disposal in compliance with Environmental Programs and departmental standards.
Monitor lab operations during sessions; troubleshoot technical issues and ensure adherence to safety practices.
Maintain, repair, and replace laboratory equipment and glassware; coordinate service and vendor repairs as needed.
Train and supervise undergraduate and graduate assistants in proper lab preparation and safety protocols.
Create, update, and maintain laboratory manuals and preparatory notes for courses, documenting technical procedures and solutions.
Participate in planning and evaluating new laboratory experiments; recommend changes in materials, methods, and procedures to optimize effectiveness.
Maintain chemical, equipment, and teaching material inventories across prep rooms and storage spaces; track usage and coordinate timely ordering.
Serve as the safety officer for all undergraduate lab spaces; maintain spill kits, first-aid kits, and compliance signage.
Assist with prototype experiments, testing of new exercises, and technical support for special projects.
Oversee set-up/break-down procedures and monitor quality control for lab exercises.
Develop and maintain purchasing processes for lab supplies; liaise with vendors for timely delivery and service.
Track and reconcile lab-related expenses with department administration.
Support departmental safety and compliance training for students, faculty, and staff.
Maintain records and reports on laboratory operations, inventories, and technical manuals to ensure continuity across semesters.
Serve as a resource to faculty, teaching assistants, and students regarding lab operations, safety procedures, and administrative processes.