Laboratory Assistance Classification Guidelines

Laboratory Assistant I

  • Work under supervision and follow specific instructions. Requires skills and knowledge of tasks, but not necessarily thorough understanding of the scientific principles involved in the work.
  • Assist with the performance of field and lab experiments by performing routine operations such as:
  • Data recording
  • Data Entry
  • Preparing materials or samples for experiments
  • Setting up basic apparatus or assisting with complex apparatus
  • Operating equipment for basic or routine tasks
  • Basic data analysis
  • Compile or summarize information from experimental work or from literature search.
  • Basic care (feeding, cleaning, etc.) of laboratory animals

Laboratory Assistant II

  • Work under supervision, but act independently within the scope of general instructions. Requires knowledge of scientific principles underlying experimental/lab work.
  • Perform standard experimental procedures such as:
  • Setting up experiment/apparatus
  • Operating experimental equipment or apparatus
  • Maintaining equipment/apparatus
  • Data collection
  • Data analysis, using specified techniques or statistical tools
  • Literature searches, requiring knowledge of library and bibliographical tools and familiarity with research area.
  • Animal care, including adherence to protocol measures, and procedures requiring care and delicacy: Includes euthanizing and disposing of dead animals and waste.
  • Maintain records of materials or equipment use, laboratory procedures, etc.

Laboratory Assistant III

  • Work under general supervision, with considerable independence in areas of responsibility. Requires considerable knowledge and understanding of scientific principles underlying the research and of laboratory/field experimental procedures.
  • Perform a variety of experiments of lab procedures:
  • Setting up experiment/apparatus
  • Operating experimental equipment or apparatus
  • Maintaining equipment/apparatus
  • Data collection
  • Data analysis, including revision or development of analytical models or techniques.
  • Literature searches, requiring considerable familiarity with research area as well as with library resources.
  • Animal care, including adherence to protocol measures, and procedures requiring care and delicacy: Includes euthanizing and disposing of dead animals and waste. Train others in animal care techniques and procedures.
  • Maintain records of materials or equipment use, laboratory procedures, etc. Monitor inventory of supplies and coordinate ordering of materials.
  • Oversee work of other lab assistants or students. Train in laboratory procedures and techniques.