Laboratory Assistant, Chemistry

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Office, Clerical and Technical
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Laboratory Assistant, Chemistry

Agricultural & Food Laboratory, Laboratory Services Division

Four (4) positions

1 position: Regular full-time

1 position: Temporary full-time from July 2024 to November 2024
Temporary absence of the regular incumbent

1 position: Temporary full-time from July 2024 to May 2025
Temporary absence of the regular incumbent

1 position: Temporary full-time from July 2024 to June 2025
Temporary absence of the regular incumbent

Hiring #: 2024-0341

Please read the Application Instructions before applying

Laboratory Services Division (LSD) provides diagnostic and testing services to clients in private industry, government and academic organizations.  A diverse service laboratory, LSD consists of two operational units: The Agriculture and Food Laboratory (AFL) and the Animal Health Laboratory (AHL).  The Chemistry Unit (AFL) is seeking a laboratory assistant to play a broad supporting role for chromatographic based analysis, as well as other chemistry related testing approaches within the Unit.

Key responsibilities of the Laboratory Assistant:

• Preparing samples for a variety of food and environmental samples (cleaning, chopping, grinding, weighing) and/or sub-sampling;
• Performing a variety of routine extraction and analytical clean up procedures and tests;
• Setting up instrument sequences and performing sample analysis under the guidance of laboratory technicians;
• Entering analytical results into LIMS;
• Preparing reagents and analytical standards;
• Verifying pipettes, thermometers, etc. and maintaining appropriate records for accreditation requirements;
• Discarding samples, solvents and reagents in compliance to health & safety standards and protocols;
• Complying with LSD guidelines and policies including Health and Safety, and Quality Assurance;
• Ensuring laboratory cleanliness and safety.

The Chemistry Unit environment is fast-paced and highly collaborative.  Candidates who bring a positive and service-focused attitude, who thrive managing multiple tasks, are highly adaptive and flexible, and enjoy working within a team environment, will be most successful in this role.  Minimum requirements also include the following:

• One-year Community College diploma from a Laboratory Technician program in the Chemistry field, combined with relevant laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Demonstrated working experience with a variety of sample preparative techniques, extractions (liquid/liquid, solid phase, reflux and acid digestions) and rapid tests;
• Proven ability to work efficiently and effectively in light of new information, changing situations and different environments;
• Self-motivated, adaptive and able to work collaboratively in a team environment, within tight deadlines and minimal supervision;
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and oral/written communication skills;
• Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety and WHMIS legislation in a laboratory environment;
• Experience working in a Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) accredited laboratory is an asset. 

Position Numbers       486-053 (RFT), 486-068, 486-066, 486-022
Classification               USW, Local 4120 Salary Band 3*
Salary Range              $23.89 Minimum
                                           $26.68 Normal Hiring Limit
                                           $32.26 Job Rate

*Tentative evaluation; subject to final review.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 2024 07 10
Closing Date: 2024 07 17