Lab Apprentice Jobs in Paterson, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Only NJ residents apply.

Summary/objective

This position reports to the Chief Science Officer. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Analytical Chemist to join our team as a STEM Educator. This individual will play a key role in developing laboratory experiences that introduce students to advanced analytical chemistry techniques while fostering a love for science. You will instruct students in an analytical lab equipped with cutting-edge instrumentation, helping them gain exposure to professional methodologies and real-world applications.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a mission-driven organization making a tangible impact on students' lives.
• Work in a cutting-edge analytical lab with state-of-the-art equipment.
• Collaborate with a dynamic team of educators and scientists dedicated to STEM education.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Essential Functions

(Full-Time Position, 40 Hours/Week, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

• Instruction and Mentorship:
  • Design and deliver engaging, hands-on lessons for middle and high school students.
  • Explain complex analytical chemistry concepts in a way that is accessible and inspiring to students.
  • Provide mentorship and encouragement to students, nurturing their interest in STEM fields.
  • Train laboratory instructors and assistants on analytical instrumentation functions and use.
  • Train, advise and mentor participants of S2S’ pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship program.
• Lab Operations:
  • Operate and maintain advanced analytical instruments, including HPLC, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, UV/Vis spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, and other modern analytical laboratory tools.
  • Proficiency in wet chemistry techniques (assay development, sample and solution preparation, pH, dilution, and titrations).
  • Guide students in performing experiments, analyzing results, and understanding data.
  • Ensure a safe and productive laboratory environment by following best practices in safety and instrument use.
  • Have a willingness to learn and instruct cross-discipline skills in STEM.
• Curriculum Development:
  • Develop and update curriculum content aligned with STEM educational standards and the goals of S2S.
  • Collaborate with the S2S team members to integrate analytical chemistry techniques and applications into current and future STEM experiences.
• Community Engagement:
  • Represent Students 2 Science in outreach efforts to schools, families, and partners.
  • Assist in program evaluations and provide feedback to continuously improve student experiences.

Competencies/Qualifications

• Experience developing protocols, SOPs, or instructional guides.
• Demonstrated experience with analytical techniques and method development (HPLC, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, UV/Vis spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy). Candidates proficient at running, maintaining, and developing methods for GC and ICP are preferred.
• Familiarity with maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation.
• Experience in teaching or mentoring middle and high school students preferred.
• Ability to convey complex scientific concepts in an engaging and understandable manner.
• A strong commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists and promoting diversity in STEM fields.
• Possess problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Highly organized with attention to detail.
• Skill in using personal computers and a variety of software applications.
• Excellent written and communication skills.
• Detail oriented and work with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency.
• Positive and happy demeanor - ability to work with others.
• Must be self-directed and able to complete projects with limited supervision.
• Proven ability to collaborate across teams and departments, contributing to shared goals.

Travel Requirements

• Ability to travel on occasion to both the Newark and Whippany sites, as well as off-site locations for training sessions, meetings, and company events.
• Advance notice will be provided for all travel-related events.
• Employees are expected to provide their own reliable transportation.

Physical demands

• A significant amount of time is spent sitting and standing. Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. (lab equipment, supplies, etc.) required. Must be able to read, write and understand English. Good auditory and visual skills are required. This is an in-office position at both the Apollo Technology Center and Newark Technology Center.

Required education and experience

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Analytical Chemistry or related field, or equivalent related experience.

Preferred education and experience

• PhD in one or more STEM-related fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Mathematics), or equivalent related experience.
• One (1) or more years of successful experience in teaching STEM to Middle or High School Students.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off