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Physics Laboratory Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Will teach a two-semester sequence of Physics Laboratory and lecture demonstration support for ... May also initiate repair requests on campus. * Assist students in use of computers in support of ...

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Physics Laboratory Assistant information

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How much do physics laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics laboratory assistant in the United States is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Physics Laboratory Assistant?

A Physics Laboratory Assistant helps set up, maintain, and organize laboratory equipment and materials for physics experiments. They assist instructors and students during lab sessions, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may help with data collection and record keeping. Additionally, they are often responsible for cleaning up after experiments and ensuring that all apparatus are functioning properly and stored correctly.

What is the highest salary for a lab assistant?

The highest salary for a physics laboratory assistant varies depending on experience, location, and employer, but it can reach up to $50,000 to $60,000 annually in some regions. Advanced roles with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities may offer higher compensation. Typically, salaries are influenced by education level, certifications, and the complexity of laboratory tasks performed.

How to become a physics lab assistant?

To become a physics lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring post-secondary education in physics, engineering, or related fields. Relevant skills include familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety procedures, and basic scientific principles; some roles may require certification in laboratory safety or technical skills. Gaining experience through internships or assisting in research projects can also improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Physics Laboratory Assistant vs Physics Technician?

AspectPhysics Laboratory AssistantPhysics Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree, some technical trainingAssociate or bachelor's degree in physics or related field, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, research labs, universitiesResearch facilities, industrial labs, government agencies
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with experiments, setting up equipment, maintaining lab suppliesPerforming complex experiments, calibrating instruments, analyzing data

The main difference between a Physics Laboratory Assistant and a Physics Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Laboratory Assistants typically support experimental setups and maintenance, requiring less advanced technical skills. Physics Technicians handle more complex tasks, often with higher education and technical certifications. Both roles are essential in educational and research settings, but technicians usually perform more specialized and technical work.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Physics laboratory assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, education level, and location. Full-time positions may offer annual salaries ranging from $25,000 to $45,000, often with opportunities to work with scientific equipment and assist in experiments.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a physics laboratory assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring post-secondary education or coursework in physics or related sciences. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols are also important qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physics Laboratory Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of physics principles, basic laboratory techniques, and at least a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or LabVIEW), and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set exceptional candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, safe lab operations, and efficient collaboration with researchers and students.

What are some common challenges faced by Physics Laboratory Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Physics Laboratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring equipment is properly calibrated, and maintaining a safe working environment. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, keep detailed records of equipment usage, and regularly communicate with supervisors and students. Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and proactive troubleshooting can help prevent accidents and ensure smooth lab operations.
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Physics - Laboratory Assistant

Physics - Laboratory Assistant

High Point University

High Point, NC • On-site

$10/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


High Point University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

248th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Title:LaboratoryAssistant

Department: Physics

Supervisor: Will Frondorf

Starting Rate of Pay:$10 /hour

Length of Time: Eligible for rehire on a semester basis.

Department Description

Weseekto be innovative, creative, and effective in our approach to preparing students fortheir next steps into a successful graduate program or career in a diversity of fields.With a focus on undergraduate research, mentoring, and effective teaching, we work to build a strong community among students, whereby they support one another, work in teams, and find strong relational connections. It is the combination of these factors, along with outstanding faculty, thatmakesus strong.Students employed by the department in this position will gain skills associated with leadership and teaching laboratories,and will enhance their skills in critical thinking, problem solving,organization,and communication.

Job Description

Students are needed to assist with the department's introductory level physics laboratories. The lab assistant will have two main responsibilities. The lab assistant will aid the lab managerwith introductoryphysics labequipment,resetting labs between sections,in addition to other laboratorytasksto helpmaintainthe efficiency of the laboratory. The lab assistant will also aid the faculty during the PHY 2020 physics labs by addressing student questions to help students understand lab procedures and associated physics concepts.

Job Location/Hours Required

The candidate will perform job dutiesinthe Wanek School of Natural Sciences. Hours will be before, during, and after the introductory level labs on Thursdays to prepare and put away lab equipment and to aid students during these labs. Hours may vary depending on lab section times; however, the maximum number of hours a student employee may work acrosscampus is20 hours per week. This position requires at least 2 hours per week.

Responsibilities:

Aid physicslab managerin laboratorywithequipmentsetup, reset,and tear down

Aid physics faculty in laboratory setting

Ensure safety of students in lab

Address student questionsregardinglab procedures and concepts

Othermiscellaneous laboratoryduties as assignedby faculty and lab manager

Required Qualifications:

Applicants must have completed and passed PHY 2010. A recommendation from a physics faculty member is also required.

Desired Skills:

Experience working in a lab environment

Excellent communication and organizationskills


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