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Science Assistant Jobs in Saskatchewan (NOW HIRING)

When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. About the Position: The Laboratory Assistant will ...

When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. General Accountability: The Laboratory Assistant ...

When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. About the Position: The Laboratory Assistant will ...

When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. General Accountability: The Laboratory Assistant ...

You'll support our team, assist customers, and get exposure to the busy and rewarding pace of the ... Current enrolment in post-secondary education in Agronomy, Ag Business, Plant Science, Soil Science ...

You'll support our team, assist customers, and get exposure to the busy and rewarding pace of the ... Current enrolment in post-secondary education in Agronomy, Ag Business, Plant Science, Soil Science ...

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Science Assistant information

What does a science assistant do?

A Science Assistant supports scientists and researchers by helping with laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing materials and equipment. Their duties may also include maintaining lab records, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and assisting in the preparation of reports or presentations. Science Assistants play a critical role in helping research projects run smoothly and efficiently, making them valuable team members in academic, government, or private laboratories.

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

To thrive as a Science Assistant, you need a foundation in laboratory techniques, data collection, and a relevant science degree or coursework. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and data analysis software such as Microsoft Excel or specialized scientific tools is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help you support research teams and maintain accurate records. These skills ensure reliable research outcomes, safety in the lab, and efficient collaboration within scientific projects.

What is the difference between Science Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScience AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or technical diploma
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, educational institutionsResearch labs, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizationsHospitals, biotech companies, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Science Assistants and Laboratory Technicians support scientific research and work in laboratory environments, Science Assistants often focus on assisting with experiments, data collection, and educational activities, typically requiring an associate degree or certification. Laboratory Technicians usually handle more technical tasks like equipment maintenance and sample analysis, often with similar credentials. The roles overlap in work environment and industry usage, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the setting and focus of work.

How do you become a science assistant?

To become a science assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant coursework in science. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or assisting in laboratories can improve prospects, and familiarity with scientific tools and safety protocols is often beneficial.

What is a science assistant?

A science assistant is a professional who supports scientific research and experiments by preparing materials, maintaining equipment, collecting data, and assisting scientists or researchers. They often work in laboratories, schools, or research facilities and may need knowledge of laboratory safety, data recording, and basic scientific techniques.
Infographic showing various Science Assistant job openings in Saskatchewan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Junior Research Technician, Soil Science Central Laboratory

Saskatoon, SK

University of Saskatchewan
Education • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Primary Purpose: The Soil Science Central Laboratory (SSCL) supports research activities in the Department of Soil Science and, more broadly, the College of Agriculture & Bioresources. The SSCL Technician will support the day-to-day operations of the SSCL and provide technical assistance in the areas of soil, plant, and other sample analyses; run samples in conjunction with faculty and assist in training graduate students in the operation of the SSCL's equipment.
Nature of Work: Reporting to the Department Head, the Technician assists with the operation of the Soil Science Central Laboratory. The Technician provides a mix of routine and non-routine scientific technical support services to the department faculty, their graduate students, and external users.

The Technician works as part of the bigger Departmental team stewarding sample analyses toward common research goals. The Technician maintains a good collaborative working relationship with all faculty, staff, and students. The Technician will also be tasked with sample archivism and consumables inventory; for example, tracking the number and type of incoming and outgoing samples and their results and providing users with reliable timelines and quality assurance when running samples.
Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

  • Assist in day-to-day operations of the Soil Science Central Laboratory.
  • Provide guidance to graduate students to achieve sample processing and analysis.
  • Operate laboratory instruments to conduct sample analysis.
  • Work with students, external clients, and visitors to aid timely analysis of their samples.
  • Follow standard operating procedures (SOP's) for existing and new technical instruments and/or new analyses.
  • Implement QA/QC procedures and report results to the Equipment Committee.
  • Actively work to ensure and maintain laboratory safety.
  • Supply management: maintain an up-to-date chemical inventory, manage chemical waste (including temporary storage and disposal).


Education:
A degree or formal education in chemical or environmental analysis.  Demonstrated experience using analytical equipment and associated basic analytical devices to perform environmental or chemical analysis on soil and/or plant samples. Experience and knowledge of equipment maintenance and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is an asset.
Licenses: Must possess or be willing to obtain the following certificates:

  • WHMIS Certificate
  • General Laboratory Safety
  • U of S Safety Training for new Employees


Skills:
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to relate effectively with other staff and students; effective written and oral English communication skills; ability to prioritize and organize time effectively; proven capacity to work independently and in a team setting; detail-oriented and able to perform repetitive tasks accurately and consistently; strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills for troubleshooting laboratory instruments. Knowledge of soil and plant analysis is required. Technical requirements include proficiency with operating scientific equipment, basic computer skills (including competency with Microsoft Office Suite), and good working knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols.
Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Bobbi Helgason at 306-966-8151.