Employer: Stanford University
Location: Stanford, CA, United States
Category: Bargaining Unit -TMS
Job function: Laboratory Assistant
Workplace type: On-site
Contract type: Regular
Grade: A11 - Bargaining Unit Role
Posted: 2026-10-21
This position is represented by SEIU Local 2007 and the collective bargaining agreement between the university and SEIU Local 2007 governs the terms and conditions of employment
The Stanford Department of Biochemistry (40 hours per week) seek a 100% FTE Laboratory Glassware Washer (8:00 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday). The Laboratory Glassware Washer is responsible for collection of soiled glassware, such as beakers, bottles, flasks, cylinders and tubes from each lab daily, and processes glassware by washing, rinsing, drying and sterilizing, as is appropriate for each item, before returning it to the centralized glassware facility. Assist Lab Manager with clean-up activities as needed. May occasionally perform incidental functions of Laboratory Assistant for back-up coverage purposes. Qualifications: The Glassware Washer position requires at a minimum, completion of high school, with one year's work experience required, including ability to operate autoclaves, glass washers PH meters and balances preferred. Some experience with sterile technique preferred. Ability to work with little supervision, establish own work priorities and independently search out and correct any errors. Resolve questions specifically related to the area of responsibility, using sound personal communication skills. Good organizational and problem-solving skills required.
Laboratory Assistants perform a variety of laboratory support functions to assist technical and professional employees and faculty members of the routine aspects of operating laboratories. Examples of duties in this series include glassware washing, laboratory cleanliness, media preparation, laboratory supplies, equipment servicing and routine technical support following well established guidelines. These positions are distinguished from Life Science Technician positions in that they require less specific technical knowledge and skill in laboratory procedures. The Lab Assistants work focuses on laboratory support that ensures sterile laboratory glassware, availability of supplies and media, and functioning equipment. Lab Assistants also perform routine work that supports lab research. There are five levels in the series: Laboratory Glassware Washer, Laboratory Glassware Washer Specialist, and Laboratory Assistants I, II, and III. These classifications are differentiated on the basis of the range of the duties the employees perform, the nature of the supervision received, and the level of responsibility inherent in each individual position. Characteristic duties represent key tasks and responsibilities currently associated with the job; they are not intended to provide a complete list of all duties performed by employees in these classifications.
Wash laboratory glassware and maintain cleanliness of laboratory and equipment. In addition, may perform incidental functions of Laboratory Assistants. Work is initially done under direct supervision and then periodically spot-checked.
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:
None
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Manual dexterity to perform assigned tasks.
- Write by hand, sort/file paperwork or parts.
- Frequently stand/walk, perform seated work, operate special machines
- Occasionally twist/bend/stoop/squat, reach /work above shoulders, light fine grasping.
- Lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 40 pounds.
- Rarely help move heavier items (e.g. chairs or lab equipment; packages of supplies; drums containing 2 to 15 gallons, depending on ability.
- In some Glassware Washing operations, occasionally may pull a wheeled Glassware cart that weighs approximately 100 pounds
* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work occurs in a research laboratory environment. Depending on research, Lab Assistants may work in the vicinity of animals, chemicals, gasses or hazardous materials. Expected to follow all safety requirements and procedures, including wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if required.
Core Duties:
- Wash laboratory glassware using a variety of methods: handwashing, machine washing, acid cleaning, boiling, autoclaving, etc.
- Perform miscellaneous laboratory duties such as cleaning of apparatus and equipment, general clean-up of laboratory, sterilizing media, reagents, instruments, etc.
- May perform incidental functions of the Laboratory Assistant I.
- Adhere to safety rules.
Minimum Education and Experience
Some familiarity with a laboratory environment helpful but not required. Will be trained to do this work.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Ability to follow detailed oral and/or written instructions (both verbal and written) instructions.
- Manual dexterity sufficient to perform the characteristic duties.
- Habits of cleanliness and neatness.
- Demonstrated punctuality and consistent attendance.