Laboratory Specialist - Chemistry

Essex County College; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Essex County College is seeking a Laboratory Specialist to perform comprehensive laboratory preparation and provide support for instructional disciplines within the Biology and Chemistry division. You will lead lab prep, supervise student workers, and assist faculty across weekday, evening, and weekend labs.

The role emphasizes accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance, with opportunities to coordinate materials, maintain records, and support academic excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 1 year of experience with laboratory preparation in life sciences.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Demonstrate reliability and flexibility.

Responsibilities

• Prepare materials and setups for laboratories.
• Assemble and disassemble equipment for labs.
• Provide assistance during lab sessions as needed.
• Supervise lab technicians and student workers.
• Maintain inventory and store laboratory materials.
• Ensure compliance with regulations for waste handling and purchasing.

Skills

Laboratory preparation experience

MS Office proficiency

Reliability

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Multicultural environment adaptability

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Chemistry or STEM degree preferred

Job description

Essex County College Human Resources Department

Under the supervision of the Chairperson for the Division of Biology and Chemistry or designee, the Laboratory Specialist is responsible for performing laboratory preparation services and for providing support with preparation activities for each instructional discipline of the division.

Please Note: Essex County College does not provide visa sponsorship of any kind. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and for the duration of employment.

Compensation: This position offers a competitive hourly rate of $25.00 per hour.

Join a collaborative, mission-driven college community dedicated to student success and academic excellence.

Supervisory Role

Oral and written instructions are received from the Chairperson for the Division of Biology and Chemistry or designee. The Laboratory Specialist will supervise support staff and student workers.

Duties & Responsibilities

• 1. Prepare all materials and setups for assigned laboratories for weekday, evening and/or weekend schedules.
• 2. Assemble and disassemble equipment for assigned laboratories.
• 3. Remain available during lab session to provide additional materials and assistance upon request.
• 4. Supervise lab technicians, part-time laboratory specialists and student workers.
• 5. Provide assistance to faculty and adjunct faculty as needed.
• 6. Keep inventory of materials; receiving, process, organize and handle laboratory materials; and perform laboratory processes in compliance with college, local, state and federal regulations.
• 7. Store and dispose laboratory wastes properly and in accordance with chemical storage and waste disposal regulations.
• 8. Assist with the coordination for the purchase of materials needed for effective laboratory operations ensuring compliance with college regulations.
• 9. Maintain laboratory facilities and equipment. Provide assistance with the request for repairs and maintenance of lab equipment in accordance with college regulations.
• 10. Maintain up-to-date files on each course area to include an outline of labs for each course and materials needed for each lab.
• 11. Maintain reports and records on laboratory materials.
• 12. Maintain strict confidentiality and security of staff, student, and client records.
• 13. Prepare routine, special, and ancillary reports as required.
• 14. Perform other related duties as required.

Physical Requirements

Additional Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Experience (number of years), Knowledge and/or Abilities

• 2. One year of experience with laboratory preparation in life sciences.
• 3. Working knowledge of computer applications preferably the Microsoft Office suite of applications.
• 4. Demonstrate a high degree of reliability and flexibility.
• 5. Excellent interpersonal skills.
• 6. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• 7. Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment.

Minimum Education Requirements Bachelor's Degree

Licenses and Certifications (including e.g., CPR, first aid, driver's license, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications

Experience (number of years), Knowledge and/or Abilities

• 1. Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or STEM related area.
• 2. One or more years experience with laboratory preparation in biology and chemistry.
• 3. Ability to work an extended, flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, according to demands of the role and tasks.

Education Requirements

Education Requirements Bachelor's Degree

Licenses and Certifications (including e.g., CPR, first aid, driver's license, etc.)

Posting Information

Open Date

Open Date 10/02/2026

Open Until Filled No

Close Date

Close Date 12/30/2026

Special Instructions Summary

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Essex County College is an Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, military status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).