Employment Type: Casual , Fixed Term (1-2 months)
Reports To: Associate Dean, Academic
Primary Purpose The Lab Demonstrator, Geography, Physics, Ecology and Biologyis responsible for supporting the development of laboratory content and preparing, setting up, and delivering lab experiments to students. This position delivers laboratory concepts and experimental guidance, supervises students as they conduct experiments, and mark lab assignments and examinations. In collaboration with the faculty, the laboratory demonstrators create materials to support students in the laboratory. In addition, this position is responsible for ordering supplies, organizing field trips, and liaising with internal and external parties to facilitate smooth lab operations.
Specific Responsibilities Lab Delivery and Instructional Support: Introduce students to lab concepts and reinforce the connection between the experimental procedures and theoretical concepts covered in the lectures
Demonstrate wet and dry laboratory techniques to students. Supports students carrying out practical exercises in either the dry or wet lab
Trains students to operate technical laboratory equipment, handle chemicals, and treat specimens
Instruct students as they operate laboratory equipment as they practice laboratory techniques
Supervise students and reinforce safety protocols that are appropriate for the procedure used. Maintain the safety of others in a lab environment
Field questions related to the theory or interpretation of lab results
Maintain office hours and scheduled appointments with students outside of lab hours
Supervise long-term projects and experiments during and outside lab time
Compare student work to prescribed laboratory learning outcomes
Maintain student conduct in labs
Connect students with student support services, as required
Materials preparation and Lab set-up: Materials and content Write and update lab manuals, in collaboration with faculty
Design assessments such as lab exams, lab reports, lab assignments, etc. in collaboration with faculty
Create and update lab supplementary materials in collaboration with faculty
Set up lab materials on educational platforms (e.g. Brightspace).
Lab Set-up and Maintenance Ensure the laboratory space is abiding by all safety regulations
Setup lab room according to the list created by the Faculty




Maintain up-to-date inventory and detailed prep lists of materials required to set up the labs
Prepare solutions and purchase materials required for the labs
Move, maintain, and sterilize technical equipment as needed (e.g., microscopes, models, hot plates, centrifuges, hot water baths, incubators)
Maintain cultures and live specimens (e.g., plants, protists, bacteria, fungi, and invertebrates). Collect specimens for use in the laboratory
Prepare chemicals/biohazardous materials and ensure safe disposal after use or spills
Student Assessments: Assess laboratory techniques and fieldwork and assess laboratory submissions
Invigilate and mark any laboratory assessment (e.g., lab exams, assignments, lab reports, oral presentations, etc.). If applicable, set up exams in the laboratory
Communicate results of lab assessments or post-assessment reviews in a timely (1 week) and confidential manner, in person, by email or video conference
Maintain academic integrity in lab assessments
Maintain and store records of grades
Administrative and Purchasing: Prepare and submit, for Course lead approval, purchase requisitions of supplies, equipment, and material for laboratory exercises
Monitor and balance the annual operating budget relative to requisitions
Offer input on program budget allocations and enhancements
Order and ensure the timely arrival of appropriate equipment, models, specimens, and chemicals required for labs
Contact possible vendors to evaluate stock and obtain quotes before sending to purchasing
Coordinate delivery with local vendors for live specimens.
Collaborate and participate in department/team meetings. Liaise with other groups on and off campus to facilitate resources and relevant supports
Other duties as may be assigned.
Position Requirements To be successful in the Laboratory Technician position, an individual must possess and be committed to developing, maintaining, and demonstrating the following:
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing




Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, instructors, staff and students
Ability to demonstrate the use of different equipment and techniques to students
Can interpret and apply departmental rules, policies, and technical materials
Possess great organizational skills
Ability to effectively supervise, direct, and lead others
Knows when and how to respond and manage potentially dangerous, hazardous, or emergency situations
Has a strong sense of initiative and responsibility
Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications and Brightspace is an asset
Education and experience Completion of a Bachelor of Science or Applied Science, where most coursework is in Geography, Physics, Ecology and Biology.
Two (2) years of relevant experience as a lab demonstrator, lab assistant, teaching assistant or acceptable equivalent, preferably in a post-secondary environment
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Considerable knowledge of the course content, procedures, techniques, and methodologies involved in Geography, Physics, Ecology and Biologylabs
Must have a working knowledge of WorkSafeBC and WHMIS regulations
University Canada West (UCW) is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, inclusive and accessible learning and working workplace where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse gender identities and expressions, and individuals of all sexual orientations. We recognize that historical and systemic barriers continue to affect equity-deserving groups and strive to promote inclusive practices and equitable access to opportunities across our institution.
University Canada West acknowledges that its campuses are situated on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
We thank all applicants for their interest in University Canada West. Please note that Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority consideration, and only shortlisted candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

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📌 Laboratory Technician (British Columbia)
🏢 University Canada West
📍 British Columbia