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Summer Lab Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Department of Biology, in the Eberly College of Science, has part-time openings for Summer Research Lab Assistants to work in the Anderson research lab within the ...

The Pennsylvania State University

... Lab Assistants to work in the Buanafina research lab within the department this summer. The Research Lab Assistant performs a variety of tasks associated with designing and conducting research ...

The Pennsylvania State University

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Department of Biology, in the Eberly College of Science, has part-time Summer openings for Research Lab Assistants to work in the Sipe research lab within the department ...

The Pennsylvania State University

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Department of Biology, in the Eberly College of Science, has part-time Summer openings for Research Lab Assistants to work in the Majoris research lab within the ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Tooker Lab in the Department of Entomology at Penn State, University Park is now accepting applications for summer research assistant positions to work 40 hours per week for up to 16 weeks over ...

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How much do summer lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer lab 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 Summer Jobs for a Lab Assistant?

As a summer lab assistant, you assist a team in conducting research through various experiments. Your responsibilities for this role include recording test results, preparing lab materials, and keeping highly detailed logs. These positions are often internships or entry-level jobs for students that allow you to gain research or laboratory experience and learn new skills as you pursue an advanced degree. This position is particularly helpful to those seeking a career in medical, scientific, pharmaceutical, or biological fields. Regardless of your area of study, the duties of a summer lab assistant are often to help a lab technician prepare or carry out an experiment, prepare a sample for testing, or record findings as they happen.

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

To excel as a Summer Lab Assistant, you generally need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and coursework in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data recording systems is often required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you work well in a team and follow instructions precisely. These competencies are essential to maintain lab safety, ensure accurate results, and support ongoing research projects efficiently.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a Summer Lab Assistant, and how do they contribute to the overall success of the research team?

As a Summer Lab Assistant, you’ll typically spend your days preparing lab materials, maintaining equipment, recording data, and assisting with experiments under the supervision of senior researchers. Your attention to detail ensures that experiments run smoothly and data is accurate, which is crucial for the research team’s progress. You may also help with sample collection, inventory management, and organizing lab spaces. By taking on these essential tasks, you enable scientists to focus on complex analyses and contribute directly to the success of the lab’s projects.

What are Summer Lab Assistants?

Summer Lab Assistants are temporary staff, often students, who work in laboratories during the summer months to support ongoing research and routine lab operations. Their duties typically include preparing materials, assisting with experiments, collecting and recording data, and maintaining lab equipment. This role offers hands-on experience in a scientific environment, making it valuable for those interested in careers in science or research. Summer Lab Assistants work under the supervision of senior researchers or laboratory managers and must follow safety protocols at all times.

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

AspectSummer Lab AssistantSummer Research Intern
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or current student, some labs prefer relevant courseworkUndergraduate or graduate student, often with related coursework or research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, assisting with experiments and data collectionResearch projects, data analysis, and possibly lab work, often more independent
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, biotech companiesUniversities, research labs, scientific organizations

While both roles involve supporting research activities in laboratory settings, Summer Lab Assistants typically assist with routine tasks and data collection, often requiring less experience. Summer Research Interns usually engage in more in-depth research activities, data analysis, and may have more academic prerequisites. Both positions provide valuable experience in scientific research environments.

More about Summer Lab Assistant jobs
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Summer Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Lab Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,113 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Part Time Helper / Lab Assistant - Seasonal

Part Time Helper / Lab Assistant - Seasonal

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Woods Hole, MA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for seasonal Part Time Helpers and Laboratory Assistants to join the Applied Ocean Physics & Engineering Department for the 2026 summer period (May - August 2026). These are temporary, casual, non-exempt positions, and eligible for casual benefits.
Job Description
With direct supervision, performs routine laboratory and clerical assignments. The internal working title for this position could be either Part-time Helper or Laboratory Assistant I or Laboratory Assistant II. The final level of the position will be determined to commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education and experience.
Essential functions and responsibilities:
Part-Time Helper
  • Packing and unpacking containers
  • Organizing paper or electronic files
  • Organizing mechanical/electrical supplies or office supplies
  • General clean-up
  • Data Entry

Lab Assistant I/II
  • Light mechanical assembly required
  • Organizing lab work areas
  • May be using CAD

Additional Job Requirements
Fixed Hourly Rate:
- PT: $ 17.75 /hr
- LA I: $ 19.50 /hr
- LA II: $ 20.25 /hr
The hourly rate provided for this position reflects the set base pay for new hires. Final level placement will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions.
Education & Experience
  • Part-time Helper: Working towards a High School Diploma. High School lab experience/STEM courses are helpful.
  • Lab Assistant I: High School Diploma or equivalent. CAD familiarity is desired.
  • Lab Assistant II: High School Diploma with some lab experience. CAD familiarity is desired.

All position levels require basic computer skills and a willingness to take on a variety of tasks.
Non-Essential Functions:
  • As deemed necessary by supervisor

Physical Requirements
Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift less than 25 lbs. independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs., 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and an ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic/fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, keeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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