Lab Tech Assistant - Seasonal

Lab Tech Assistant
- Seasonal

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Lab Tech Assistant – Seasonal for the Gormley Lab in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. The Lab Tech Assistant – Seasonal will support the development of automated and self-driving laboratory systems for polymer synthesis and biomaterial characterization. The position offers hands-on experience at the intersection of biomedical engineering, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

Among the key duties of the position are the following:

• Performs hardware integration (assembly, wiring, and troubleshooting of robotic platforms, liquid handlers, sensors, and serial/USB-controlled instruments).
• Performs software development (Python scripting for instrument control, data acquisition, and integration with AI-driven automation pipelines).
• Assists with testing and validation of laboratory automation workflows.

FLSA
- Nonexempt

Salary Details - $20.00/hourly

Benefits
- Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage;
Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs;
Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options;
Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable);
Life insurance coverage;
Employee discount programs.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related engineering discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant experience.

Certifications/Licenses

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Prior coursework or project experience in at least one of the following: programming, laboratory instrumentation, electronics/microcontrollers, or materials science. Proficiency in Python programming, including familiarity with scientific libraries (e.g., Num Py, Pandas). Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and standard experimental protocols. Ability to read wiring diagrams, datasheets, and technical documentation for hardware integration tasks. Exposure to version control systems (Git/Git Hub) and command-line tools (Linux/macOS terminal or Windows shell).

Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to maintain accurate documentation of experimental setups and code. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team. Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with serial communication protocols (RS-232, USB) and microcontroller platforms (e.g., Arduino) is preferred.

Equipment Utilized

Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Ability to stand and work at a bench for extended periods, lift and move equipment up to 25 lbs., and manipulate small electronic components and mechanical assemblies. May be exposed to standard laboratory conditions including chemical fume hoods, solvents, and polymer reagents, and must be willing to follow all applicable safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, lab coat).

Work is performed primarily in a university research laboratory setting. Some work will also be performed at a computer workstation for software development and data analysis tasks.