College Work Study- Biology (00010894)
🔍 Chicago, Illinois
- 📁
- Financial Aid - College Work Study Student
- 📅
- TRU0001648 Requisition #
- 📅
- Aug 08, 2025 Post Date
Federal Work Study–Lab AssistantHarry Truman Campus – Biology Department
City Colleges of Chicago (CCC), the largest community college system in Illinois, is made up of seven colleges and five satellite sites, providing more than 70,000 students each year access to a quality, affordable education.
TheFederal Work Study Program(FWS) is a federally-funded financial aid program that provides subsidized part-time employment for eligible students in order to assist them with postsecondary financial needs. City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) complies with the Department of Education’s regulations regarding the FWS program and allows students to benefit from this opportunity.
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE
The FWS program encourages students to gain experience in their prospective fields by placing them in areas and departments aligned with their area of study whenever possible. Students are able to use their wages towards educational and living expenses.
FWS jobs are available in areas such as academic departments, laboratories, libraries, administrative offices, student centers and several off-campus locations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
· Student will assist at reception desk, greeting students, faculty and staff entering office
· Assists staff in the day-to-day functions of the Office.
· Provides support on various projects and assignments as needed.
· Provides general office support including but not limited to filing, faxing, photocopying, and Data entry.
· Adheres to the City Colleges of Chicago Customer Services Excellence Standards.
· The Lab Assistant responsibilities are; Prepare solutions and buffers for Bio 121 and 114. Preparing media for Bio 223.
· Decontaminating Biohazardous material. Organizing and maintaining anatomical models.
· Clean and organize all classrooms and prep areas.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Eligibility Requirements:
· Applicants must be 16 years or older, have work permit consent, and eligible to work in the United States
· Applicants must be actively attending one of the City Colleges of Chicago
· Applicants must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credit semester hours
· Applicants must be pursuing an approved educational credential, degree, or certificate
· Applicants must have and maintain a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA (waived for first semester new students)
· Applicants must be in “good standing” – no City Colleges of Chicago academic restrictions
· Applicants must not be current Full or Part-time employees of the City Colleges of Chicago
· All positions are “employment at-will”
Minimum Qualifications:
· High School Diploma required or actively pursuing a GED at the City Colleges of Chicago.
· Knowledge of City Colleges of Chicago.
· Excellent oral communication skills.
· Excellent customer service skills.
· Promotes a positive role model and favorable public image as City Colleges of Chicago representative.
· Adheres to the City Colleges of Chicago Customer Services Excellence Standards.
· The candidate must be enrolled in Bio 121, Chemistry 121, 201.
Salary Range: $17.00 or $19.00/hr.
Offered rate will be determined based on whether assigned location is on campus or off campus.
Freqently Asked Questions
Enrolling in biology classes such as Bio 121 and chemistry courses like Chemistry 121 or 201 significantly boosts readiness for lab assistant positions. These subjects provide foundational knowledge crucial for tasks like preparing solutions and understanding lab protocols, aligning well with roles in educational lab settings.
Chicago-based lab assistant roles linked to federal work-study allow students to gain hands-on lab experience while earning subsidized wages. This setup supports financial needs and promotes career-related skills, particularly within biology departments at institutions like City Colleges of Chicago.
Lab assistants often focus on routine preparation tasks such as media and solution setup, sample decontamination, and maintaining lab organization. In contrast, lab technician assistants might engage more with technical equipment operation and data collection, requiring a broader technical skill set.
Yes, on-campus lab assistants typically interact more with students and faculty, managing reception and office duties, while off-campus roles might emphasize independent lab maintenance and preparation. Pay rates also vary accordingly, reflecting the distinct responsibilities and environments.
Lab assistant salaries in Chicago generally range between $17.00 and $19.00 per hour, influenced by factors such as campus location and specific job duties. This competitive wage reflects the technical skills required and the importance of supporting biology labs in educational settings.
Working as a lab assistant at City Colleges of Chicago offers valuable exposure within one of Illinois's largest community college systems. This affiliation enhances credibility and provides networking opportunities, potentially paving the way for advanced roles in laboratory sciences or education.
The position offers practical experience aligned with students’ academic pursuits, fostering skill development in lab techniques and customer service. Participation in federal work-study programs also makes it easier for students to manage finances while gaining relevant industry exposure.
Applicants should account for Chicago's public transit accessibility and campus proximity, which influence commute times. The city's competitive educational environment means candidates with strong academic standing and relevant coursework often have an edge in securing these roles.
Demand for lab assistants within educational settings like City Colleges of Chicago remains steady, driven by ongoing biology and chemistry programs. Compared to healthcare or hospital labs, academic labs may offer more part-time or work-study opportunities, attracting students balancing studies and employment.
Proficiency in preparing biological solutions, knowledge of biosafety protocols, and excellent communication are vital. Familiarity with college procedures and maintaining a minimum 2.0 GPA are also essential, ensuring candidates meet both academic and practical requirements of the position.
Find The Related Jobs
City Colleges of Chicago
Lab Assistant Aide
Chicago, IL
octapharma
Lab Assistant-Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5
Charlotte, NC
Allen Ear Nose & Throat
Lab Technician Assistant
Catasauqua, PA
Allen Ear Nose & Throat
Lab Technician Assistant
Emmaus, PA
Allen Ear Nose & Throat
Lab Technician Assistant
Coplay, PA
Allen Ear Nose & Throat
Lab Technician Assistant
Alburtis, PA