Lab Assistant II

SDSU Research Foundation; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in San Diego seeks a Lab Assistant II to perform nontechnical laboratory procedures. The role involves toxicity testing and sample analysis. Candidates should have laboratory experience and proficiency in MS Office. Desired qualifications include a B.S. in a relevant field. This position offers an entry-level opportunity with a full-time commitment.

Qualifications

• One year in a lab or equivalent coursework.
• Relevant education and experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform aquatic and sediment toxicity tests on samples.
• Maintain organism cultures and care for species during testing.
• Analyze toxicity results and organize data in spreadsheets.
• Produce reports summarizing test methods and historical comparisons.
• Prepare samples for chemical analysis of contaminants.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Proficiency with MS Office

Education

B.S. in Biology, Chemistry, or Environmental Science

Tools

SYSTAT

CETIS

LC/MS

Job description

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Overview

The hourly rate range for this classification is $19.26 - $32.10 per hour, and is non-negotiable. Under immediate supervision, the incumbent performs varied nontechnical laboratory procedures including processing or preparing laboratory specimens, materials, supplies, and operating specialized mechanical lab equipment. Follows detailed instructions and procedures.

Typical activities include operating mechanical equipment such as washers and autoclaves, sharpening lab instruments, cleaning materials, assembling lab apparatuses, preparing reagents, assisting lab personnel, labeling test tubes, keeping records, and operating centrifuges. The role also supports toxicity testing and chemistry analysis of samples from Naval installations, involving organism culture maintenance, performing toxicity tests, statistical analysis, report writing, and sample analysis using LC/MS.

Responsibilities

Core Responsibilities

• Perform aquatic and sediment toxicity tests on samples using marine ecology/ecotoxicology knowledge.
• Maintain organism cultures and care for species during testing.
• Analyze toxicity results with software like SYSTAT and CETIS, and organize data in spreadsheets.
• Produce reports summarizing test methods, results, statistical analyses, and discussions, including historical comparisons.
• Prepare samples for chemical analysis using LC/MS for contaminants like PCBs, PAHs, PFAS.
• Maintain laboratory spaces and prepare progress and final reports as per contract requirements.

Qualifications

Knowledge and Abilities

• Laboratory experience (academic or commercial).
• Proficiency with MS Office programs.

Experience/Education

• Minimum Education: None required.
• Minimum Experience: One year in a lab or equivalent coursework; or relevant education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

• B.S. in Biology, Chemistry, or Environmental Science.
• Experience in toxicological and analytical chemistry labs.

Additional Applicant Information

• Reside in California and within commuting distance of SDSU.
• Background check clearance required.
• Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and nondiscrimination.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Industries

• Higher Education