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Student Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Physics Student Assistant

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Physics Student Assistants will assist the department or instructors in undergraduate level Physics ... More advanced students may run discussion or laboratory sections. Qualifications: Full Employment ...

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MB 417 Student Teaching Assistant

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Immunology Laboratory. Position Duties * TA will be doing set-up and clean-up of lab, preparation ... The competencies students develop while working at OSU are defined by the National Association of ...

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Student Laboratory Assistant information

What is a student laboratory assistant?

Student Laboratory Assistants are typically undergraduate or graduate students who support laboratory operations in academic or research settings. Their responsibilities often include preparing materials and equipment, assisting with experiments, maintaining lab cleanliness, and sometimes helping with data collection or analysis. This position allows students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study, develop technical skills, and work closely with faculty or researchers. Student Laboratory Assistants usually work part-time and may receive training specific to the lab's needs.

What are some common challenges student laboratory assistants face during their shifts?

Student Laboratory Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as preparing materials, maintaining equipment, and assisting with experiments, all while managing their academic workload. One common challenge is adapting quickly to different protocols and safety procedures across various labs. Effective communication with supervisors and fellow assistants is essential, especially when troubleshooting equipment or clarifying experiment instructions. Staying organized and attentive to detail helps minimize errors and ensures a smooth workflow.

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

To thrive as a Student Laboratory Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and relevant scientific coursework, often supported by enrollment in a related degree program. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry software, and safety certification (such as OSHA training) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and smooth collaboration with lab staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient lab operations and supporting research or instructional activities.

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

AspectStudent Laboratory AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsEnrolled students, often pursuing related degreesPost-secondary education or certifications in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentEducational labs, university or college settingsResearch labs, clinical labs, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, universitiesHospitals, research facilities, manufacturing companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Student Laboratory Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their credentials and work environment. Student Laboratory Assistants are typically enrolled students working part-time in educational labs, while Laboratory Technicians usually hold specialized certifications and work in professional lab settings. Both roles support laboratory operations but differ in experience level and industry focus.

How do you become a student laboratory assistant?

To become a student laboratory assistant, students typically need to be enrolled in a relevant educational program and demonstrate good academic standing. They often apply through their school's career services or science departments, and may need to complete an interview or training in lab safety and procedures before starting the role.

What do student laboratory assistants do?

Student laboratory assistants support laboratory operations by preparing materials, setting up equipment, and assisting with experiments under supervision. They may also handle cleaning, inventory management, and data recording, often using tools like microscopes or lab software. This role helps students gain practical experience while ensuring the lab runs smoothly.

What qualifications do you need to be a student laboratory assistant?

To become a student laboratory assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in a relevant educational program, have good academic standing, and possess basic knowledge of laboratory safety and procedures. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or software may also be required, depending on the specific role and institution.
Infographic showing various Student Laboratory Assistant job openings in Oregon as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Vet Med Student Laboratory Assistant

Corvallis, OR • On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Department:Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine - Vet Diagnostic LabSpecial Instructions to Applicants:

When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

A Resume

A Cover Letter


For additional information please contact: Donna Mulrooney at Donna.mulrooney@oregonstate.edu


We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.


This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a Criminal History Check and be determined to be position qualified as per OSU Standard 576-055-0000 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in Youth Programs may have additional Criminal History Checks every 2 years.


OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.


Note: All job offers are contingent upon Human Resources final approval


Job Description:

This recruitment will be used to fill one part-time (a maximum of 24 hours per week) Student Laboratory Assistant and Support Services position for the Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine-Vet Diagnostic Lab at Oregon State University (OSU).

This position will provide daily support services for laboratories throughout the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. This includes light janitorial tasks, including empty garbage, recycling, and general cleaning. Additionally, assistance is needed daily to unpack specimens shipped to the laboratory for testing. Strict protocols must be followed to ensure specimen integrity, chain of custody and biosafety. Must be available to work during the hours that packages are received (10 am - 2 pm). If funding permits, employment may be extended through the upcoming school year.

Position Duties

  • Open packages containing specimens sent to the lab for testing. May involve use of a biosafety cabinet if packaging is compromised

  • Triage, sort and stabilize specimens, record information for chain of custody

  • Deliver specimens to laboratories within VRL and Magruder Hall

  • Empty regular trash and recycling from multiple rooms throughout the laboratory

  • General cleaning; may include sweeping, mopping, dusting, etc.

  • Other support tasks as assigned

Transferable Skill Development

OSU is committed to ensuring students are prepared for success after graduation through intentional skill development as student employees. The competencies students develop while working at OSU are defined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) as the essential skills employers seek in their hires. In this position, students learn and build vital career-readiness skills in the primary areas below:

  • Communication, Teamwork, Technology Professionalism

Qualifications:

Full Employment Eligibility Requirements can be found here:https://hr.oregonstate.edu/student-employment-manual/500-employment-eligibility-requirements

  • Must be academically enrolled in a high school, community college, or university and pursuing a program or course of study

  • Must meet Academic Standing Requirements; students on academic suspension are not eligible for employment

  • Must meet the applicable minimal enrollment standard

    • High School student: Regularly enrolled in a high school or participating in a home-schooling program

    • Undergraduate and post-baccalaureate student: 6 credit hours per term

    • Undergraduate international student: 12 credit hours per term*

    • Graduate student officially admitted to Graduate School: 5 credit hours per term

    • Graduate international student officially admitted to Graduate School: 9 credit hours per term*


*International students may be allowed to carry fewer hours than specified above and still be considered "full-time" by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A reduced course load is approved by theOffice of International Services(OIS), and must be provided to the Student Employment Center.

Required

  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions without deviation

  • Experience following biological laboratory safety procedures

  • Ability to use both hands to open boxes and lift up to 25 pounds

  • Must be able to document required information for each shipment with legible handwriting

  • Completed courses in biology, zoology, chemistry, medical terminology or related coursework

This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a Criminal History Check and be determined to be position qualified as per OSU Standard 576-055-0000 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in Youth Programs may have additional Criminal History Checks every 2 years.

Preferred

  • Previous work experience in a laboratory

  • A working knowledge of basic medical terminology

Working Conditions/Schedule:Work schedule is 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Monday - Friday, except university holidays when we are closed. Possibility of additional hours if warranted
Timeliness and attendance during your assigned shift is expected. Unexcused or repeat absences will result in termination.
May be exposed to specimens that have strong odors, degrading tissue, bodily fluids, blood, fecal material and may contain human pathogens.Salary Range:Anticipated Start Date:2026-08-19Anticipated End Date: