Laboratory Assistant 1

Job Posting Details

Job : 88516

Location: UCSB Campus

Full/Part Time: Part Time

Payroll

Title:

Laboratory Assistant 1

Job Open Date: 8/27/26

Application Review Begins: 9/14/26

Department Code (Name): NRII (NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH INST)

Percentage of Time: 50%

Union Code (Name): TX - Technical Professionals

Employee Class (Appointment Type): Staff:
Career

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Classified Indicator Description (Personnel Program): PSS

Salary Grade: STEPS

Pay Rate/Range: The budgeted salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $27.04/hour. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience; the budget for the position; and the application of fair, equitable, and consistent pay practices at the University. The full salary range for this position is $27.04 to $32.31/hour.

Work Location: 3171 Biology II bldg

Working Days and

Hours:

M-F, 10-2 (flexible)

Benefits Eligibility: Full Benefits

Type of Remote or Hybrid Work Arrangement, if applicable: N/A

The Neuroscience Research Institute is an organized research unit whose mission is to foster knowledge and understanding of the nervous system by serving as a center for scientific research breakthroughs. The NRI is a group of investigators whose collective goal is to create an intellectual atmosphere conducive to exploration at the frontiers of human knowledge where disciplinary boundaries disappear. Investigators in the NRI recognize that the interests of neuroscience extend broadly from repair and prevention of human disease to the principles that underlie the earliest nervous systems, from the human mind to the single molecular building blocks of the brain.

This position is based in the laboratory of Associate Professor Maxwell Wilson, which combines optogenetics, synthetic biology, and laboratory automation to study cell signaling dynamics and operates the Robotic Synthetic Biology Bio Foundry.

Working at UC means being part of this vibrant institution that shines a light on what is possible. People make UC great, and UC recognizes your contributions by making this a great place to work. Excellent retirement and health are just one of the rewards. Learn more about the benefits of working at UC

Part-time (50%) position in the laboratory of Associate Professor Maxwell Wilson. The Lab Assistant 1 provides routine operational and administrative support to a research laboratory. Responsibilities focus on maintaining basic laboratory functions, ensuring compliance with safety procedures, and supporting day-to-day lab operations.

• High School Diploma (or equivalent)
• Previous experience in a laboratory, technical, or operational support role (1 year or less)
• Ability to follow written protocols and safety procedures
• Basic familiarity with laboratory environments and equipment
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently on routine tasks
• Clear communication skills and ability to coordinate with laboratory staff
• Basic computer skills, including email and ordering systems

• Associate's Degree or coursework in a scientific or technical field
• Experience with ordering systems, inventory management, or laboratory environments is beneficial

• Satisfactory criminal history background check
• UCSB is a Tobacco-Free environment

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy

UC Anti-Discrimination Policy

Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

• 75% Laboratory Management - Maintains general laboratory organization and cleanliness. Manages laboratory waste streams, including chemical, biological, and sharps waste, in accordance with EH&S guidelines. Maintains liquid nitrogen (LN2) tanks, including monitoring levels, coordinating refills, and following safe handling procedures.
• 15% Procurement - Orders laboratory supplies and consumables and maintains inventory levels Coordinates with vendors, facilities, and EH&S as needed
• 10% Record keeping - Assists with basic laboratory documentation and record keeping. Supports onboarding logistics for new laboratory members as needed