View Job description for Specialist, Lab Materials, Science, Technology, and Math

Reports To: 

Lab Materials Manager

Position Status:

Full-Time

Posted Pay Range: 

$19.00 - $23.00

Join the College of Western Idaho as a Lab Materials Specialist and play a vital role in creating exceptional learning experiences for students in biology, chemistry, physics, and geology. In this hands-on position, you'll prepare laboratory materials, maintain scientific equipment, manage chemical and biological inventories, and help ensure safe, efficient lab operations. Working closely with faculty, you'll support engaging laboratory instruction, mentor student employees, and contribute to a collaborative team dedicated to student success. If you enjoy science, problem-solving, and creating organized, safe learning environments, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.

Why Join CWI?

At the College of Western Idaho (CWI), you will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where problem-solving and innovation are valued, and your contributions directly enhance the efficiency of the institution.

Responsibilities:

Prepare and Support High-Quality Science Laboratories

• Prepare, stage, and organize laboratory materials, chemicals, specimens, equipment, and supplies for biology, chemistry, physics, and geology courses.
• Prepare and standardize chemical reagents, microbiological media, and laboratory solutions while ensuring accuracy and quality.
• Set up, conduct, and assist with laboratory experiments and testing as needed to support instructional activities.
• Break down, clean, and properly store laboratory materials following each lab session.

Maintain Laboratory Equipment, Inventory, and Facilities

• Maintain, calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform routine upkeep on laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Monitor inventory levels, organize stockrooms, and ensure laboratory supplies and materials are readily available.
• Maintain clean, organized, and fully operational laboratory and storage areas.
• Care for biological specimens, microbial cultures, laboratory glassware, and instructional models.

Promote Laboratory Safety and Regulatory Compliance

• Support laboratory safety programs by maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDS), organizing chemical storage, and following all institutional, state, and federal regulations.
• Safely handle, store, and dispose of hazardous chemicals and biological waste.
• Identify, address, or report safety concerns to maintain a safe learning and working environment.
• Participate in ongoing safety training related to laboratory operations, biohazards, and hazardous materials management.

Support Faculty, Students, and Laboratory Operations

• Partner with faculty to ensure laboratories are fully prepared and instructional needs are met.
• Train, mentor, and support student employees in laboratory procedures, equipment use, and safety practices.
• Assist with field trip logistics, including transportation coordination and participation when needed.
• Foster a collaborative, service-oriented environment that reflects CWI's commitment to student success and excellence.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Previous coursework in sciences or equivalent experience
• BS/BA in Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry preferred
• Previous experience in media preparation and, microbial culture maintenance and
identification (Microbiology) preferred
• Previous experience in wet chemistry and analytical instrumentation such as HPLC, AAS,  GC, GC/MS (Physical Sciences) preferred

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Within the lab environment, there is exposure to odorous chemicals, and the noise level is generally quiet but does vary based on activity. May be required to lift chemical containers and laboratory equipment weighing up to 45 lbs.

Additional Instructions for Applicants:

*Lab Materials Specialists may be assigned to support labs outside of traditional campus hours and at different locations.

**All candidates must reside within, or be willing to relocate to, a reasonable commuting distance from CWI. Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits:

• For information on health insurance, including coverage details and plan summaries, visit www.OGI.Idaho.gov  

• Retirement plans with employer contribution of over 11%
• Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts 
• Employer-paid life insurance and short- and long-term disability insurance 
• Eleven paid holidays per year (faculty may vary)
• Generous vacation and sick leave
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition discount on classes at CWI and other colleges

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other applicable legally protected status.