Student Laboratory Assistant

Dominican University; River Forest (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

Dominican University seeks a Student Laboratory Assistant to support the CHEM 104 Introductory Organic Chemistry Laboratory. Working under the laboratory instructor, the assistant helps maintain a safe, organized, and efficient learning environment while assisting students in developing fundamental laboratory skills used in introductory organic chemistry.

The role involves preparing workstations, distributing equipment, assisting with demonstrations, enforcing PPE procedures, guiding lab

Qualifications

• Must have completed General Chemistry and at least one Organic Chemistry course.
• Able to communicate effectively with students from varied backgrounds.
• Dependable, punctual and maintains a safe lab environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare laboratory workstations before each session.
• Distribute, assemble, and collect equipment and supplies.
• Assist with lab setup, demonstrations, and cleanup.
• Enforce PPE and safety procedures in the lab.
• Guide students on techniques and safe equipment use.
• Maintain inventory and notify when supplies run low.
• Clean and organize glassware and work areas after sessions.
• Handle chemical waste disposal according to guidelines.
• Report malfunctions, spills, or safety concerns promptly.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and grades.

Skills

Communication skills

Punctuality

Safety awareness

Education

General Chemistry completed

One semester Organic Chemistry

Job description

Course: CHEM 104 – Introductory Organic Chemistry Laboratory

Supervisor:Senior Lecturer- Physical Sciences

Open To:Dominican University Undergraduate Students

LSA Status:Hourly

Hourly Rate:$15.00

Position Summary:

The Student Laboratory Assistant provides instructional and technical support for the CHEM 104 Introductory Organic Chemistry laboratory. Working under the supervision of the laboratory instructor, the assistant helps maintain a safe, organized, and efficient learning environment while assisting students in developing fundamental laboratory skills used in introductory organic chemistry.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Prepare laboratory workstations before each laboratory session.
• Assemble, distribute, and collect laboratory equipment, chemicals, and supplies.
• Assist with laboratory setup, demonstrations, and cleanup.
• Comply with laboratory safety procedures, including appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Assist students with laboratory techniques and equipment operation while encouraging independent problem-solving.
• Help maintain laboratory inventory and notify the instructor when supplies need replenished.
• Clean and organize laboratory glassware, instruments, and work areas following each laboratory session.
• Assist with proper chemical waste collection and disposal in accordance with university and regulatory safety guidelines.
• Report equipment malfunctions, spills, or safety concerns promptly to the instructor.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and grades.

Required Qualifications:

• Successful completion of General Chemistry and at least one semester of Organic Chemistry.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students from a variety of academic backgrounds
• Dependable, punctual, and committed to maintaining a safe and professional laboratory environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience serving as a chemistry laboratory assistant, peer mentor, or tutor.
• Familiarity with introductory organic laboratory techniques, including:
  • Measuring and transferring liquids and solids
  • Filtration
  • Liquid-liquid extraction
  • Distillation
  • Melting point determination
  • Chromatography
  • Safe handling of common organic solvents

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods during laboratory sessions.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including a laboratory coat, safety goggles, and gloves.

Learning Outcomes:

• By the end of the appointment, the Student Laboratory Assistant will have strengthened skills in:
• Laboratory organization and preparation
• Chemical safety and regulatory compliance