Field and Lab Assistant

University of British Columbia - Staff; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Canada is seeking a Field and Lab Assistant to coordinate laboratory and field work at various farm sites. The ideal candidate will possess a high school graduation, preferably with an undergraduate degree in agroecology or related fields, and have at least 2 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include conducting field sampling and sample analysis, ensuring meticulous data handling and collaboration with a research team. This position offers a monthly compensation of CAD $4,109.47 to $4,507.06.

Qualifications

• Minimum one year of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years related experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate laboratory and field work at various farm sites.
• Conduct field sampling of soils, crops and amendments.
• Prepare and analyze soil and crop samples.
• Analyze data and enter into database.

Skills

Effective verbal and written communication

Interpersonal skills

Data analysis and interpretation

Attention to detail

Ability to work independently and in teams

Physical stamina

MS Office proficiency

Valid Class 5 Driver's License

Education

High School Graduation

Undergraduate degree in agroecology or related field

Masters of Science

Job description

Staff - Non Union

Job Category Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants Job ProfileNon Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 1 Job Title Field and Lab Assistant Department Research Support | Smukler Research Group | Applied Biology Program | Faculty of Land and Food Systems Compensation Range $4,109.47 - $4,507.06 CAD Monthly Posting End Date August 10, 2025

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date

August 31, 2026

This position is expected to be filled by promotion/reassignment and is included here to inform you of its vacancy at the University.

Job Summary
This position will coordinate laboratory and field work at various farm sites in southwest British Columbia.

Organizational Status
Reports to the Principal Investigator (Sean Smukler). Will work with a UBC research team consisting of professors, postdoctoral fellows, technical staff, graduate and undergraduate students.

Work Performed

• Conducts field sampling of soils, crops and amendment;
• Prepares and analyses soil, crop and amendment samples for chemical and physical properties using colormetric and mid-infrared spectroscopy methods;
• Analyzes data and enters data into FT-IR database
• Performs other duties when necessary.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
Incorrect decisions, particularly in the field would likely be costly in terms of wasted time and flawed data. Poor judgement will negatively impact the reputation of the Program and Faculty.

Supervision Received
Reports to the Principal Investigator.

Supervision Given
None.

Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation and a minimum one year of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• High School Graduation.
• Undergraduate degree or diploma in agroecology or an agriculture related subject or Masters of Science is preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years related experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills:

• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal with the ability to deal effectively with a diversity of people.
• Ability to research, analyze and interpret data, determine implications, and provide recommendations
• Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail. Must be able to adapt and be flexible.
• Ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment.
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the job - fit with excellent stamina, able to perform work for extended periods of time in any weather conditions. Ability to effectively use MS Office at an intermediate level. (e.g., MS Word/Excel, Email, Internet)
• Must have valid Class 5 Driver's License.