The K–12 Science Lab Technician supports hands-on science instruction across all divisions, from kindergarten through twelfth grade, by ensuring that laboratory spaces are safe, well-equipped, and prepared for instructional use. This role is essential to the effective delivery of experiential science learning and student inquiry at every developmental level.

Working in close collaboration with science faculty and operational partners (Facilities and Business Office), the Lab Technician provides logistical and technical support for laboratory-based learning, maintains laboratory readiness, and upholds safety and compliance standards in support of the School’s academic program.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Laboratory Safety & Compliance

• Maintain all required laboratory safety documentation, including Safety Data Sheet (SDS) binders, Chemical Hygiene Plan updates, and required signage.

• Conduct and document routine eyewash station and safety shower inspections.

• Properly label, store, and segregate chemicals in accordance with compatibility guidelines and regulatory requirements.

• Coordinate hazardous waste staging and approved disposal pickups.

• Enforce personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols and safety routines during laboratory activities across all grade levels.

Lab Preparation & Classroom Support

• Prepare reagents, materials, and laboratory stations for scheduled instructional activities, verifying appropriate concentrations and equipment calibration.

• Provide in-lab support during instructional periods, including troubleshooting equipment, assisting with timing, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.

• Clean, restock, and reset laboratory spaces efficiently between class periods to support smooth transitions throughout the school day.

Equipment & Materials Management

• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot scientific equipment, including microscopes, balances, data probes, incubators, glassware, and other specialized instrumentation.

• Coordinate equipment repairs, service contracts, and preventative maintenance schedules.

• Maintain an organized stockroom with clear labeling systems and established inventory par levels to support timely reordering.

Ordering & Budget Support

• Research vendors and place orders for laboratory supplies and equipment.

• Receive, inspect, and verify shipments for accuracy and damage.

• Maintain purchasing records and reconcile invoices in coordination with the Business Office.

• Recommend safe, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible alternatives when appropriate.

Instructional & Program Support

• Assemble laboratory kits, instructional station cards, and student data sheets for faculty use.

• Support make-up labs and small-group instruction as requested.

• Provide classroom coverage or proctoring support only when scheduled and approved by the Science Department Chair and the appropriate Division Head.

• Other duties as assigned.

Living Organisms & Environmental Stewardship

• Maintain approved living organisms, including bacteria, plants, fish, and invertebrates.

• Monitor habitat conditions, maintain detailed care logs, and ensure ethical treatment standards are upheld.

Events, Clubs & Fieldwork

• Prepare materials and laboratory setups for special programs and events, including Science Olympiad, Family Science Night, DNA Day, and science fairs.

• Assemble and manage field investigation kits for water quality testing, air monitoring, soil sampling, and other environmental studies.

Scheduling & Communication

• Manage the shared laboratory calendar and equipment request system.

• Publish a weekly “lab preview” to keep faculty informed of upcoming preparations, experiments, and equipment availability.

Position Notes

• Curriculum design, assessment, and grading remain the responsibility of classroom teachers.

• Classroom coverage or proctoring responsibilities occur only with prior approval from the Science Department Chair and the relevant Division Head.

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline or equivalent laboratory experience required.

• Prior experience in an educational or research laboratory setting is strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory safety standards, chemical handling procedures, and relevant regulations (e.g., OSHA, EPA).

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to work independently while maintaining clear and consistent communication with faculty across divisions.

• Physical ability to lift up to 40 pounds, stand for extended periods, and transport equipment between laboratory spaces.

• Experience working with children or in educational settings is highly valued.

• Comfort with basic technology systems for inventory tracking, scheduling, and communication.

About Collegiate School

Collegiate is a K-12 independent boys’ school, led by Head of School Bodie Brizendine, located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. We are a small school of 666 students housed in one building, giving us a unique sense of community and camaraderie. Students travel through 3 divisions, Lower (K-4), Middle (5-8) and Upper (9-12). Our student/teacher ratio is 6:1, with over 76% of our faculty having advanced degrees, allowing for close relationships and excellent, engaging teaching. The total number of school employees includes 160 full time plus 50+ part-time coaches, after school instructors. Our school was founded in 1628. Over the years it has moved around the city, with our last location of over 125 years being at 77th Street and Broadway. We moved into our new facility at 301 Freedom Place South and 61st Street in 2018. Our building, designed and built exclusively for our use, provides students with state-of-the-art classrooms, a 40,000-book library, two gymnasiums, a full theater and a blackbox, along with two outdoor spaces. All our work is driven by our statement of beliefs and our values. We believe that we are at our best when all members of the school community conduct the...mselves with respect, kindness, and integrity. We believe that the traditions and values of this old but not old-fashioned school can inspire boys to develop their individual capacities for personal and academic excellence. We believe that boys learn best when they are members of a diverse and just community that fosters purposeful and spirited engagement, inquiry, and collaboration in academics, athletics, and the arts. We believe that a liberal arts education committed to diligent and discerning scholarship prepares students to be citizens who act with conscience, courage, and compassion. The school’s financial profile includes an annual operating budget (2023) $45M, an endowment of $75M and $5.6M in financial aid being awarded in 2023.

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