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Lab Student Assistant Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

... student to add to our Aerospace & Defence team . This role will work closely with the industry ... Setup tests, collect data, and assist in the analysis; this will include physical test setup and ...

... student to add to our Aerospace & Defence team . This role will work closely with the industry ... Setup tests, collect data, and assist in the analysis; this will include physical test setup and ...

Lab Student Assistant information

What is a lab student assistant?

Lab Student Assistants are students who support faculty, researchers, or lab managers by performing a variety of tasks in a laboratory setting. Their responsibilities often include preparing materials, cleaning equipment, assisting with experiments, recording data, and ensuring the lab complies with safety standards. This position provides hands-on experience for students seeking to enhance their practical skills in scientific research or technical environments. Lab Student Assistants typically work part-time while attending classes and gain valuable exposure to their field of study.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a lab student assistant?

As a Lab Student Assistant, you'll typically help with preparing materials, maintaining equipment, setting up experiments, and supporting data collection under the supervision of lab staff. This role often involves collaborating closely with faculty, researchers, and other students, providing valuable hands-on experience with laboratory procedures and safety protocols. It's an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of scientific concepts, develop technical skills, and gain insights into research methods, which can be beneficial for future academic or professional pursuits. You may also be tasked with basic administrative duties, contributing to the smooth operation of the lab.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab student assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Student Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically enrollment in a relevant science program. Familiarity with common lab equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes data entry or lab management systems is important. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you excel in supporting lab operations and collaborating with supervisors. These skills ensure accurate experiment support, safe environments, and efficient workflow within the laboratory.

What is the difference between Lab Student Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectLab Student AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled student, basic lab safety knowledgeEnrolled student or recent graduate, research-related coursework
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, assisting with experimentsResearch projects, data collection, analysis
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research labs, biotech companiesUniversities, research institutions, corporate R&D
Common Search IntentPart-time lab work, student rolesResearch experience, internship opportunities

In summary, a Lab Student Assistant typically supports lab operations and experiments under supervision, often as a part-time student role. A Research Intern usually engages in research projects, data analysis, and gaining research experience, often as a temporary internship. Both roles are valuable for students interested in scientific careers but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Can you get a lab student assistant job with no experience?

Lab student assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as they typically provide on-the-job training. Employers look for students with basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, good organizational skills, and a willingness to learn. Having relevant coursework or familiarity with lab equipment can be beneficial but is not always mandatory.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab student assistant?

To be a lab student assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled as a student, have a good academic standing, and possess basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment or software may also be required, depending on the specific role.

What cities near Calgary, AB are hiring for Lab Student Assistant jobs?

Cities near Calgary, AB with the most Lab Student Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Student Assistant job openings in Calgary, AB as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 13% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Co-op Winter 2027 - Systems Integration, Verification, and Validation - 8-12 months

Calgary, AB โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Build bold. Deliver impact. Win together.

At General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada, we’re not just engineering technology — we’re shaping the future of defence and security. Our teams design and deliver advanced, mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, strengthen communities, and protect the people we serve.

If you’re looking for meaningful work that contributes to a safer, more secure world, you’ll find purpose here. Every day, your skills will directly impact programs that matter.

To be considered for this opportunity, you must be enrolled at a recognized Canadian post-secondary institution and be eligible for a co-op work term during the period specified in the job posting. As part of your application, you must upload proof of enrolment and your most recent academic transcript.

Job Description

In this role, students support the integration, verification, and validation of complex defence systems. These positions provide hands-on experience with system testing, requirements analysis, test automation, and process improvement activities. Students gain exposure to mission-critical systems used in land operations, including platforms deployed across vehicles, headquarters, and other operational environments.

In this role you can expect to:

  • Support system integration and testing activities in both lab and simulated operational environments.
  • Execute verification and validation tasks according to established procedures and under guidance from senior engineers.
  • Review and analyse system requirements to confirm testability and maintain verification traceability.
  • Assist with investigation, troubleshooting, and retesting of system defects to support reliable operation.
  • Contribute to process improvements, test automation initiatives, and quality assurance activities.
  • Collaborate closely with engineers, software developers, and multidisciplinary teams across the organization.
  • Participate in iterative development or structured project team activities, supporting end-to-end verification processes.
Qualifications

What You Need to Have to Succeed

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical/scientific discipline.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team.
  • Enthusiastic, willing to learn, and takes ownership of assigned work.

What Makes You Stand Out

  • Experience with scripting or programming languages such as Python, PowerShell, or Java.
  • Exposure to test automation frameworks or lab/system testing environments (e.g., Robot Framework, Selenium).
  • Familiarity with requirements management or defect tracking tools (e.g., JIRA, DOORS).
  • Understanding of system verification and validation processes.
  • Exposure to hardware/software interfacing or embedded systems.
  • Experience working with or familiarity with AI/ML models.

It is a requirement that General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada be registered with the Canadian Controlled Goods program and that all of its workforce be security assessed. Successful applicants must meet all applicable security requirements, including but not limited to the ability to obtain and maintain a Canadian government security clearance. Applicants may be required to meet additional security requirements in order to gain access to technical data, classified areas or information that is subject to international regulations. You must be eligible to work in Canada.


Additional Information

Compensation 
The expected hourly rate for this position is  $24.92 - $33.23. Final compensation will be determined based on your relevant work experience to date. As part of student placement, you will be eligible for quarterly pay increases.

Why Students Love Working Here

  • Purposeful Innovation & Problem Solving: You’ll work alongside experienced professionals and some of the brightest minds in the defence sector, gaining hands-on experience with next-generation technologies. This is a place where your ideas are encouraged, creativity is valued, and you’ll be supported as you learn and help drive modern, practical solutions.
  • Connection & Mentorship: Through onboarding to your career journey with us, you will work with teammates that are excited to share their experience and develop your skills. Have meaningful interactions, ask questions, and build relationships that can lead to lasting industry connections.
  • Perks & Highlights:
    • Eligibility for future co-ops or full-time roles
    • Flexible work hours and compressed workweek options
    • Hybrid work model (where applicable)
    • Networking opportunities across teams and disciplines
    • Onsite amenities and social events (gym, bike storage, trivia, appreciation events, etc.)
    • Corporate discounts

Accommodation 
If you require accommodation during any stage of the application process, please contact Human Resources via recruitment@gd-ms.ca.