Student Hourly Lab Assistant

The University of Kansas; Lawrence (KS); On-site; USD 17,047 - 24,280; Part time

Job summary

The University of Kansas is seeking student hourly employees to assist with lab work related to a biodiesel initiative. Responsibilities include assisting in the production of biodiesel from used cooking oil, testing fuel properties, and coordinating oil pickup and delivery logistics.

Applicants must be at least sophomore standing and possess good communication skills along with MS Office experience. A resume and cover letter are required, and communication with Dr. Susan Williams prior to applying is necessary.

Qualifications

• Must be at least sophomore level standing at KU.
• Good communication skills as evidenced by application materials.
• At least 2 years of MS Office experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist in production of biodiesel from used cooking oil.
• Test fuel properties according to ASTM procedures.
• Coordinate oil pickup and fuel delivery with logistics manager.

Skills

Good communication skills

MS Office Experience

Experience with alternative fuels

Laboratory experience

Education

At least sophomore level standing at KU

Job description

Position Overview

Lab work associated with the biodiesel initiative possibly including production and testing of fuels and delivery of fuel to customers.

Job Description

100% Work to include but not be limited to: Assisting in production of biodiesel from used cooking oil, testing of fuel properties according to ASTM procedures, working with logistics manager to coordinate oil pickup and fuel delivery, outreach with the University and community.

Required Qualifications

1. At least sophomore level standing at KU.
2. Good communication skills as evidenced by application materials.
3. At least 2 years of MS office experience.

Preferred Qualifications

1. 1 year prior experience with alternative fuels.
2. 6 months prior laboratory experience.

Position Requirements

During the semester term of the appointment, the student hourly must be enrolled in no fewer than 6 credit hours. For summer periods the student hourly must: (1) have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester or (2) be pre-enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in no less than 6 hours or (3) be enrolled in summer session or (4) be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester. Student Hourlies may be undergraduate or graduate students. (Exceptions granted for GRA/GTA/GA appointments DO NOT apply to Student Hourly appointments).

Employment Conditions

(1) Student employees are not eligible for remote work arrangements unless an exception is approved by the unit leadership and HR. (2) This is an hourly/non-exempt position. A student employee cannot hold an hourly/non-exempt position and a salaried/exempt graduate or undergraduate position (GRA/GTA/GA/RUA/RGA) concurrently.

Additional Candidate Instructions

In addition to the online application, a resume and cover letter are required to be considered for this position. Must have communicated with Dr. Susan Williams prior to applying. Only complete applications will be considered.

Contact Information to Applicants

Susan Williams

[e-mail]

Advertised Salary Range

$15.00 Hourly

Anticipated Start Date

Monday July 6, 2026