Laboratory Assistant

Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for motivated and enthusiastic individuals to join the Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center (OBSIC, https://obsic.whoi.edu) within the Geology and Geophysics Department. This is a regular, casual, non-exempt position, and is eligible for casual benefits. The internal working title for this position will be Laboratory Assistant, and the final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education and experience. The initial term will be up to one year, renewable based on performance and funding availability.

The successful candidate will aid with the assembly and testing of Ocean Bottom Seismographs and related support equipment. With direct supervision, helps an engineering team in all phases of project development related to OBS. Duties may include mechanical assembly, basic electrical assembly, routine laboratory and clerical assignments, organizing parts and supplies, packing and shipping, moving equipment, helping with testing in the lab, on the dock, or on small boats in local waters.

Candidates should have an aptitude and interest in basic mechanical and/or electrical assembly from previous employment, vocational school, high-school projects or hobbies (automobile work, boat building or repair, audio-visual equipment, gaming computers, maker-space 3D printing, etc.). Manual dexterity and familiarity with basic hand tools is highly desirable. Familiarity with computers is desirable. It is strongly recommended that you upload a cover letter. This role can be a minimum of 8 hours per week.

Job Description

• Assists in assembly, testing, and maintenance of instrumentation

• Maintains data records and performs other appropriate clerical functions
• Light mechanical/electrical assembly
• Organize lab work areas
• May use CAD
• May use the WHOI Rapid Prototyping Facility to support component design/construction
• May perform other project specific duties and complete other general task-oriented functions as needed

Education and Experience

• Laboratory Assistant I: High School Diploma or equivalent. CAD familiarity is desired.

• All Levels: Basic computer skills and a willingness to take on a variety of tasks are required for all positions.

• Position level will be based on the selected candidates' education and experience

Additional Job Requirements

Physical Requirements:

Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift and carry 25-50 lbs independently. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.