Laboratory Assistant
ALS · North Vancouver · CA$21.48/hr (stated in the posting)
At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.
When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.
Build Your Laboratory Career with ALS
ALS is expanding its laboratory operations team and is seeking Entry-Level Laboratory Assistants to support seasonal demand, changing workflows, and day-to-day laboratory activities.
This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are eager to gain practical laboratory experience, develop technical skills, and explore a variety of career paths within a dynamic analytical environment. No two days may be the same: successful candidates will be cross-trained in several laboratory areas and assigned where support is most needed.
Training may include exposure to:
- Sample Preparation
- Weighing
- Specialty Assay
- XRF
- Spectroscopy
- Digestion
- Rack Management
By working across multiple laboratory functions, you will gain valuable experience in sample handling, basic analytical techniques, documentation, equipment care, and laboratory quality and safety practices.
Why Join This Team?
This role is part of a strategic initiative to build a flexible, well-trained team of cross-functional laboratory assistants. The team plays an important role in maintaining continuity across analytical workflows and supporting departments during seasonal fluctuations and changing priorities.
As an Entry-Level Laboratory Assistant, you will have the opportunity to:
- Gain hands-on experience in a professional laboratory environment
- Develop practical technical and analytical skills
- Learn about multiple laboratory departments and processes
- Work with experienced laboratory professionals
- Build a strong foundation for future growth within ALS
- Develop transferable skills that may support future opportunities in more specialized laboratory roles
- Contribute to accurate, timely, and high-quality analytical service
This position is well suited to someone who enjoys variety, pays close attention to detail, follows procedures carefully, and is motivated to learn.
Key Responsibilities
Sample processing & Preparation
- Accurately weigh and handle geological materials
- Perform basic analytical techniques, such as pXRF scans and pH measurements
- Prepare instrument solutions and perform filtration as required
- Maintain the timely storage and disposal of sample solutions
Sample Management & Laboratory Maintenance
- Scan, track, organize, and maintain accurate records of sample boxes
- Label, sort, and maintain the sequence and organization of materials and labware
- Clean and maintain labware and analytical equipment
- Wash and leach sample racks
Quality, Safety & Operational Support
- Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas
- Complete daily equipment verification records
- Report equipment issues promptly to the appropriate supervisor or manager
- Provide flexible, cross-functional support to laboratory departments
- Follow established methods, procedures, work instructions, and schedules
- Support analytical quality by completing tasks accurately and consistently
- Follow all ALS health and safety policies, procedures, and applicable safety regulations
- Promptly report safety, quality, or operational concerns
- Adapt to shifting priorities and project-based assignments
- Perform other related duties as assigned by the Lab Manager
What You’ll Bring
Technical & Systems Skills
- Familiarity with sample weighing and the use of laboratory balances
- Basic computer skills, including email, printing, and data entry
- Basic familiarity with WebView or similar laboratory information systems is an asset
Operational & Task Management
- Strong attention to detail and hand-eye coordination
- Good organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks
- Ability to follow procedures and instructions precisely
- Ability to identify and escalate issues when required
Communication & Work Style
- Effective written and verbal communication skills in English
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- A dependable, flexible, and quality-focused approach to work
- Comfort working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Education and Experience
Credentials & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Previous laboratory experience is an asset but not required
Background & Interests
- Interest in chemistry, geology, science, or laboratory operations is an asset
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift up to 20 pounds
- Ability to stand for a full shift and walk for extended periods
- Ability to sit at a desk and perform general office tasks when required
- Manual dexterity to perform detailed and repetitive tasks
Working Conditions & Schedule
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including dust masks and gloves
- May work in an environment where exposure to unpleasant odours or dust may occur
- Ability to work in a 24/7 laboratory operation, including day, afternoon, and overnight shifts and weekends
Compensation & Benefits
- The estimated hourly pay for this position is $21.48 CAD per hour at the time of posting. Individual compensation is determined by factors such as job-related skills, relevant experience, education, and training. Additionally shift premiums are available for afternoon and nights.
- Structured wage increases
Depending on employee status, benefits may include:
- Structured wage increases.
- Comprehensive benefit package specific to your work status (including extended medical, dental, and vision coverage, access to company perks, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with company match, employee assistance and wellness programs).
- Additional vacation days for years of service.
- Business support for education or training after 9 months with the company.
- Learning & development opportunities (unlimited access to e-learnings and more).
Please note: Benefits vary based on employee status.
Working at ALS
The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.
Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognize excellence.
At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us.
We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.
Everyone matters
ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognized and valued.
Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, military or veteran status, gender, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information and any other characteristics protected by the law. We invite resumes from all interested parties, including women, First Nations, Metis and Inuit persons, members of minority groups, and persons living with disabilities.
ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.
Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.
How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.
Working at ALS
The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.
Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence.
At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us.
We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.
Everyone Matters
ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.
Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, military or veteran status, gender, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information and any other characteristics protected by the law. We invite resumes from all interested parties, including women, First Nations, Metis and Inuit persons, members of minority groups, and persons living with disabilities.ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.
Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.
How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.