Student Hourly Lab Assistant

Center for Public Partnerships & Research; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 17,047 - 24,280; Part time

Job summary

Center for Public Partnerships & Research is seeking a student hourly for lab work associated with the biodiesel initiative, including fuel production and testing. The ideal candidate will assist with biodiesel production from used cooking oil and logistics for fuel delivery.

Candidates must have at least sophomore standing at KU, strong communication skills, and 2 years of MS Office experience. The position is hourly and non-exempt, requiring enrollment in at least 6 credit hours during the term.

Qualifications

• Must have been enrolled in a minimum of 6 credit hours during semester.
• 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.

Skills

Communication skills

MS Office experience

Education

Sophomore level standing at KU

Job description

Overview

Position Overview

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

Responsibilities

• 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

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

Preferred Qualifications

• 1 year prior experience with alternative fuels.
• 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

• Student employees are not eligible for remote work arrangements unless an exception is approved by the unit leadership and HR.
• 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

Apply to Job