Laboratory Aide, Physiology & Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine

Position Overview

The Department of Physiology & Pharmacology in the Cumming School of Medicine invites applications for a Laboratory Aide. This Fixed Term Recurring Part-time position is for approximately 1 year (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.

The position of Lab Aide for the Alberta Centre for Toxicology (ACFT) reports to the Laboratory Manager, and to the Director. 

Staff work in the Reception area of the environmental toxicology laboratory, receiving and processing samples for testing in the lab.  Samples include environmental samples (water and air) and biological samples (blood and urine). The workload varies according to the number of samples received and by number of ODP samples that test positive and require additional testing. The Lab Aide position requires a high school diploma and does not require any technical training but does require concentration and careful attention to detail following standard procedures (SOPs).

The workload varies according to the number of samples received and shift rotation.  The position is a recurring part-time (20-35 hours per week). The primary work hours are 11:00 am to 6:00 pm but may be extended/changed to fit the normal operation hours (8:00 am to 6:00 pm).  Overtime on weekday, weekend, or holiday may be required.

Position requires good physical heath: able to lift moderate heavy boxes and bins (20-40lbs.)and able to pull and push gas cylinders/dewars (200-600lbs.) that are on wheeled carts with another co-worker.  Workload involves significant periods of standing and moving throughout lab. 

Recurring Part-time employees are hourly employees engaged to perform work on an irregular schedule. 

Position Description

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

• Receiving of samples that are to be tested
• Inspection of the samples for proper identification and packaging
• Logging in of samples into the Laboratory Information Management System
• Support the storage of samples and the provision of samples to analysts for testing
• Enter results into the Laboratory Information Management System, and the printing and distribution of verified reports
• Maintain the hard copy records of requisitions and reports
• Maintain inventory and order/chemicals lab supplies
• Check lab gas cylinder levels and obtain and change cylinders
• Perform pipette calibrations
• Record fridge/freezer/laboratory temperatures
• Perform cleaning of lab glassware and some general lab cleaning

Qualifications / Requirements:

• High school diploma required
• Able to lift moderate heavy boxes and bins (20-40lbs.)and able to pull and push gas cylinders/dewars (200-600lbs.) that are on wheeled carts with another co-worker
• Concentration and careful attention to detail following standard procedures (SOPs) required
• Good English language skills in reading, writing and oral communication required
• Good knowledge in Microsoft Office programs, Windows computer software, laboratory information management system (LIMS) and data entry skills
• Good organizational and time management skills, accuracy and strong attention to detail when performing tasks
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, prioritize, multi-task, and maintain a flexible schedule based on needs are also necessities for the position
• Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System Certificate (WHMIS) and Introduction to  Biosafety - Module 1 will be provided upon hiring
• Ability to multi-task and deal with multiple simultaneous priorities in an efficient and effective manner

Application Deadline:  February 10, 2023

We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.

Additional Information

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Operational/Administrative Job Family, Phase II.

To find out more about management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary and all we have to offer, view our Management and Staff Careers website. For more information visit Careers in the Cumming School of Medicine.

The University strongly recommends all faculty and staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

About the University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is Canada’s leading next-generation university – a living, growing and youthful institution that embraces change and opportunity with a can-do attitude. Located in the nation’s most enterprising city, the university is making tremendous progress on its Eyes High journey to be recognized as one of Canada’s top five research universities, grounded in innovative learning and teaching and fully integrated with the community it both serves and leads. The University of Calgary inspires and supports discovery, creativity and innovation across all disciplines. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.

The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy in line with the foundational goals of Eyes High, committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.

The University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their professional success while they are here. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.