Part-Time Assistant Laboratory Analyst

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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 Agricultural Analytical Services Laboratory (AASL) in the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking applicants for a part-time Assistant Laboratory Analyst position. The position will begin at 15-20 hours per week starting in March and increase to 30-40 hours per week from May through August 2026, with the possibility of extension.

This is an excellent opportunity for a student or recent graduate to gain hands-on experience in a high-volume agricultural testing laboratory.

The AASL provides analytical testing and research-based recommendations that support sustainable resource management decisions. The laboratory offers comprehensive analyses of soil, growing media, water, plant tissue, manure, compost, biosolids, and other agricultural materials.

The Assistant Laboratory Analyst will primarily support sample intake and preparation activities, including:

• Receiving, logging, and sorting agricultural samples
• Preparing samples for analysis (drying, grinding, mixing, subsampling, and extractions)
• Operating and maintaining basic laboratory equipment, including pipettes, analytical balances, pH and conductivity meters, filtration manifolds, drying ovens, muffle furnaces, and laboratory dishwashers
• Assisting with data entry and sample tracking using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Performing all duties in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and laboratory safety protocols

Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies:

• Current Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences undergraduate students are preferred
• Previous laboratory experience is preferred but not required
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to follow written procedures

Compensation:

The starting rate for this job is $15/hour .

Applicants should submit a brief cover letter summarizing their training and relevant experience, along with a current resume.

Inquiries about the position may be directed to Kyle Elkin (kre5000@psu.edu) or John Spargo (jts29@psu.edu).

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