Lab Tech

University of New Mexico; Gallup (NM); On-site; USD 24,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

University of New Mexico Gallup Branch is seeking a Lab Tech to set up lab experiments and assist in fabrication and installation of equipment within a physical or life sciences setting. The role includes preparing specimens, making chemical solutions, and cleaning up after labs, with support for students as needed.

This regular full-time, non-exempt position offers an hourly pay range of $17.56 to $22.29, benefits eligible, and requires pre-employment physical and background checks.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year related experience.
• Experience directly related to lab duties preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up lab experiments and assist in equipment fabrication/installation.
• Prepare specimens and chemical solutions as required.
• Clean up after labs and maintain lab safety.
• Assist students in lab activities and perform administrative duties.

Skills

Lab communication

Written/verbal communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Lab equipment operation

Calibration/setup

Job description

Position Summary

PLEASE NOTE: This position is for the UNM Gallup Branch, located in Gallup, NM, approximately 138 miles west of Albuquerque, NM.

The University of New Mexico (UNM) Gallup Branch Division of Math Business Science & Technology is seeking a highly motivated individual to work as the division's Lab Tech. This position requires the employee to setting up lab experiments and/or participating in the fabrication and installation of equipment or laboratory research project within a physical or life sciences discipline. The Lab Tech's duties include preparing specimens, making chemical solutions, and cleaning up after labs, as appropriate to the specific position. The Lab Tech may assist students in lab activities, and may perform miscellaneous administrative duties.

See the Position Description for additional information.

Conditions of Employment

• Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED; at least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Vocational, college, or university attendance and/or degree
• Knowledge of experimental procedures, protocols, and preparation techniques within area of specialty
• Ability to set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain standard laboratory and/or medical equipment, fixtures, and related materials
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Possess skill in providing guidance and instruction in laboratory protocols and use of laboratory equipment.

Campus: Gallup

Department: Gallup Branch

Employment Type: Staff

Staff Type: Regular - Full-Time

Status: Non-Exempt

Pay: Hourly: $17.56 - $22.29

Benefits Eligible: This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for a more information.

ERB Statement: As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.

Background Check Required: Yes

For Best Consideration Date: 8/28/2026

Eligible for Remote Work: No

Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.