"Science Lab Support Assistant (PT)"

Science Lab Support Assistant (PT)

If you're exploring new career opportunities or seeking a dynamic and supportive work environment, consider Mercer County Community College (MCCC). As a publicly supported institution committed to open access and student success, MCCC strives to attract, retain, and support a highly skilled and diverse workforce—our most valuable asset.

At Mercer, campus culture and belonging are celebrated, and our sense of community is deeply rooted in both our mission and daily practices. With two distinct campuses—the James Kerney Campus in the heart of Trenton and our expansive 292-acre West Windsor Campus just six miles away—MCCC offers the benefits of a robust institution with the close-knit feel of a true community.

In addition to meaningful work and a supportive culture, employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes credit course tuition waivers for themselves, their spouses, and dependents—making higher education more accessible for the whole family. With 69-degree programs and 35 credit certificate options, there are countless ways to grow with us—both personally and professionally.

JOB DUTIES

Mercer County Community College emphasizes excellence in classroom and laboratory instruction. Under the supervision of the Lab Coordinator and in collaboration with Program Coordinators and faculty, the Science Lab Support Assistant assists with laboratory operations in biology, chemistry, physics, and horticulture. The Science Lab Support Assistant provides hands-on support by preparing reagents; setting up and breaking down laboratory activities; organizing and maintaining inventory; and assisting with the preparation and care of equipment, models, specimens, greenhouse materials, and live organisms. The position may also assist with routine equipment testing and general laboratory maintenance as directed.

This role works under established procedures and guidance, supports daily laboratory needs, and notifies faculty or the Lab Coordinator of issues that may impact equipment, supplies, or scheduled activities. The position requires strong organization, flexibility, and attention to detail in a fast-paced academic environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This list of tasks is illustrative ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class. It does not imply that all positions within the class perform all of the duties listed, nor does it necessarily list all possible duties that may be assigned.

Lab Support & Operations

• Assist in the maintenance, organization, and day-to-day operation of science laboratories and preparation rooms in coordination with the Lab Coordinator.
• Set up and break down laboratories and prep rooms for instructional use, including preparation of weekly lab materials, lab staging, and comprehensive laboratory exams as needed.
• Prepare laboratory exercises, experiments, and instructional materials in collaboration with Course and Program Coordinators to support student learning.
• Provide direct support to full-time and adjunct faculty to ensure the successful delivery of laboratory courses.
• Assist in the preparation, organization, and maintenance of laboratory and stockroom supplies, equipment, reagents, specimens, media, and other instructional materials.
• Receive, store, and maintain laboratory supplies and chemicals in accordance with established procedures.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, use, and disposal of chemicals and laboratory materials in compliance with safety regulations, Right-to-Know requirements, inventory controls, and laboratory waste disposal standards.
• Identify and report actual or potential laboratory issues or safety concerns to the Lab Coordinator.
• Collaborate with Facilities and other college departments to support the safe and effective maintenance of laboratory spaces.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information and exercise responsible stewardship of college facilities, equipment, and materials.

Participation in College, Division, and Program Activities

• Participate in meetings as scheduled by the college, division, department, and Course or Program Coordinators.
• Respond in a timely and professional manner to information requests from college, division, and departmental stakeholders.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with students, faculty, staff, and administrators, both independently and as part of a team.
• Serve on college or departmental committees as appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

BENEFITS

https://www.mccc.edu/hr/employees/benefits.shtml

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Working conditions include office environment, laboratories, and supply areas. Travel to and from both campuses of MCCC may be required.
• This position requires a flexible work schedule which will include evening availability.
• Assigned tasks and responsibilities span both campuses for all MCCC positions.

ADA AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Positions in this class typically require: ability to use a key board, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions.

Light Work: Light work involved lifting no more than 20 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 10 pounds.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Ability to develop a rapport with the Dean, Program Coordinators, Faculty and students to ensure successful delivery of laboratory instruction.
• Possesses knowledge of the discipline including interpretation and evaluation of the theories within the discipline.
• Connect the subject matter with related fields.
• Learn and use technology to enhance laboratory teaching when appropriate.
• Ability to accept responsibility for own actions.
• Ability to follow through on commitments.
• Demonstrated commitment to the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Ability to work successfully with diverse individuals and groups with various levels of education.
• Ability to handle confidential matters with appropriate discretion.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree in biology, chemistry or closely related field from an accredited institution
• Completion of at least 15 college-level credits in Biology, Chemistry or closely related subject.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in biology, chemistry or closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Laboratory experience in the appropriate discipline.
• Prior work experience in higher education environment.
• Prior work experience managing laboratory supplies and operations.