Chemistry Laboratory Assistant (Student/Work Study)

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a current resume and a brief cover letter that contains the following information:

• Availability for the semester for which they are applying
• Contact information for a Department of Green Chemistry and Biochemistry faculty member who has had them in lab
• A list of chemistry labs completed at UM-Flint, or equivalent coursework completed at a different institution

Job Summary The Department of Green Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Michigan-Flint is seeking motivated students to join our team as Laboratory Assistants in our teaching labs for the Fall 2026 semester. These semester-based positions offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic laboratory setting, supporting faculty and students while developing practical skills in science education.

Laboratory Assistants work under the direct supervision of the Natural Sciences Laboratory Supervisor and their assigned course instructor.

Responsibilities*

The primary role of a laboratory assistant is to support faculty during teaching laboratories. All lab assistants are expected to:

• Respond to student questions and provide assistance with calculations

• Guide students in the proper setup and safe use of laboratory equipment

• Be familiar with the location and correct use of all safety equipment

• Adhere to all departmental safety protocols

• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment by:

• Ensuring adequate supplies of reagents are available for upcoming labs

• Verifying that all laboratory equipment is properly stored after use

• Refilling paper towel and soap dispensers as needed

• Cleaning benchtops and chemical dispensing stations at the end of each lab session

• Reporting any damaged or malfunctioning equipment to the Lab Supervisor

Required Qualifications*

• Must be a currently enrolled UM-Flint student or recently graduated, within the last 6 months and not enrolled in a graduate program
• Successful completion and understanding of the course that is being assigned, equivalent experience, or higher level chemistry labs
• A demonstrated ability to apply laboratory safety rules
• Must be friendly and approachable to all members of the classroom
• Recommendation by a laboratory instructor from the Department of Green Chemistry and Biochemistry

Desired Qualifications*

• Excellent communication skills
• A strong understanding of the material being presented
• Ability to troubleshoot issues that may arise in the lab

Modes of Work

Onsite

The work requires, or the supervisor approves a fully onsite presence. Onsite is defined as a designated U-M owned or leased work location within or outside of the State of Michigan

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of three calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the fourth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.