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Summer Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Bucks IU

Fab Lab Group Leader - Summer Camp

Warminster, PA · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

The Fab Lab Summer Camp Group Leader must possess knowledge of and experience with STEAM topics, such as coding and robotics, engineering and design, arts, electronics and circuitry, 3D printing ...

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 ...

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How much do summer lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer lab in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Summer Lab Assistant, you typically need a background in science coursework, attention to detail, and basic laboratory skills, often supported by current enrollment in a relevant degree program. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and data recording software is important for daily tasks. Strong communication, reliability, and the ability to work collaboratively help you stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and effective teamwork in a research environment.

What types of projects or experiments might I work on as a Summer Lab assistant, and how hands-on is the experience?

As a Summer Lab assistant, you'll typically engage in a variety of hands-on scientific projects, such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, collecting data, and assisting with equipment setup. The exact nature of your tasks can vary depending on the lab’s focus—ranging from biology and chemistry to engineering or environmental science. Most programs are designed to offer a practical, immersive experience, allowing you to work directly alongside experienced researchers or graduate students. This role provides an excellent opportunity to develop lab techniques, gain exposure to real-world research, and build connections with professionals in your field.

What are summer lab positions?

Summer lab positions are temporary research or assistant roles offered during the summer, typically at universities, research institutes, or private laboratories. These positions are often geared toward students or recent graduates who want hands-on experience in a scientific setting. Participants may assist with experiments, data analysis, lab maintenance, or other research-related tasks. Summer lab jobs provide an opportunity to gain practical skills, work with experienced researchers, and explore potential career paths in science. They can also enhance resumes and help with networking in the scientific community.

What is the difference between Summer Lab vs Summer Internship?

AspectSummer LabSummer Internship
CredentialsTypically requires enrollment in a relevant academic programOften requires enrollment or recent graduation in a related field
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in labs or academic settingsPractical, industry-focused, may include office or fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in academic and research institutionsCommon in corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors
Search & Comparison IntentInterested in research opportunities and academic projectsLooking for industry experience and professional development

Summer Labs are primarily research-based programs in academic or research settings, focusing on scientific or technical projects for students enrolled in relevant programs. Summer Internships are industry-oriented, providing practical work experience in corporate or organizational environments. Both offer valuable experience but serve different career development paths.

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Summer Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Lab job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Summer Part-Time Research Assistant-Tooker Lab

Summer Part-Time Research Assistant-Tooker Lab

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site, Remote

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

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 the summer. The position is set to begin in early May 2024 and continue into August, but start and end dates are negotiable. Our research group studies ecology of plants, plant-feeding insects and slugs, and spiders and predatory insects in agricultural and natural systems. Our projects this summer will focus on:
1. Ecologically-based management (e.g., biological control) of crop pests
2. The role of cover crops in pest control
3. Plants that can "smell" their attackers and then defend themselves
4. The influence of agrochemicals on aquatic insect communities
This position is based in State College over the summer. Successful applicants will be paid a competitive hourly wage and will help graduate students and faculty with their new and ongoing research projects. We conduct greenhouse, lab, and field experiments and assistants will gain experience in different types of research techniques and systems. As assistants gain experience, they will gain more independence in their responsibilities. Interest in animals, plants, and agriculture are welcome but not required. We are looking for a diverse group of summer assistants who are curious and motivated with desire to learn new details about the world around us!

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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About Pennsylvania State University

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Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

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11 - 50 Employees

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University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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