Student Assistant - Lab Tech (Soils Lab)

Stephen F. Austin State University; Nacogdoches (TX); Hybrid; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Stephen F. Austin State University is seeking a student lab technician to assist in the operations of the Soil, Plant and Water Laboratory. The role offers hands-on experience with soil, plant, and hydrology methods, supporting both research and teaching activities.

The position requires enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student in a related field. Training is provided, and no prior lab experience is required.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student in a related field.
• Experience in laboratory operations is preferred.
• No direct experience is required. Training and instruction will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Assists with sample collection and preparation (soil, plant, and water).
• Conducts basic laboratory analyses.
• Maintains laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Records and organizes data.
• Follows established safety and quality control procedures.

Skills

General office knowledge

Attention to detail

Record keeping

Professional communication

Instruction following

Teamwork / independence

Protocol adherence

Willingness to learn

Education

Undergraduate or graduate student in related field

Job description

This is a student lab tech position responsible for assisting in the operations and activities of the Soil, Plant and Water Laboratory. Supports research and teaching activities. The position offers hands‑on experience with laboratory methods related to soil science, plant science, and hydrology.

QUALIFICATIONS

The minimum education required for admittance as a student at Stephen F. Austin State University.

Must be enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student in a related field (e.g., environmental science, agricultural, biology, or chemistry preferred). Experience in laboratory operations is preferred.

No direct experience is required. Training and instruction will be provided.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Assists with sample collection and preparation (soil, plant, and water).
2. Conducts basic laboratory analyses.
3. Maintains laboratory equipment and supplies.
4. Records and organizes data.
5. Follows established safety and quality control procedures.

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

1. Knowledge of general office and clerical procedures and concepts.
2. Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
3. Ability to accurately prepare and maintain records and files.
4. Ability to communicate professionally and courteously with university faculty and staff, students, and the general public.
5. Ability to understand and follow instructions.
6. Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
7. Ability to follow protocols.
8. Ability and willingness to learn.

A student must be enrolled in six or more semester hours to be eligible for student employment during the fall or spring semesters. To be eligible for student employment during the summer, a student must be enrolled in three or more semester hours or be registered for courses in the upcoming fall semester.

Student assistants may not hold any other type of position such as a graduate assistantship or temporary casual employment at the same time that they are employed as a student assistant.