Glasswasher |
Career OverviewA laboratory based glasswasher has a key responsibility in providing materials for experiments, maintaining the sterility and cleanliness of the materials used in experimental procedures, as well as keeping the experiments on a timeframe by having all required materials are the right stations for the procedure.
The glasswasher is also responsible for sterilizing all glassware through an apparatus called an autoclave. The autoclave is able to heat the glassware up to a temperature that is hot enough to kill any bacteria, germs, viruses or other infectious microorganisms that may be one the surface. This aspect is absolutely critical in experimental procedures as contaminated glass is could potentially affect the results of the experiment or procedure.
The glasswasher must have a good understanding of laboratory procedures and a strong ability to follow written and oral directions. The glasswasher is responsible for getting all glass equipment to the various workstations so that the researchers are able to complete their tasks with out delay or lack of materials.
The glasswasher is responsible for maintaining the glass storage room; identifying and discarding damaged glass items as well as re-ordering replacements for damaged items as well as inventory control.
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Career RequirementsAs a very minimum a glasswasher must have a high school diploma with at least one to two years of experience in a laboratory setting. They should have a good background in biochemistry, chemistry or life sciences as well as laboratory procedures.
Many glasswashers are undergraduate students that are working on gaining laboratory experience for future careers in the biotechnology field.
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Job OutlookSince the job of glasswasher is an entry level position there is often a steady requirement for individuals to hold this job. As research continues to expand both in government and private facilities as well as manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries the need for glasswashers is fairly constant. Hospitals, research facilities, drug manufacturers and even environmental and agricultural facilities often have a need for glasswashers.
Smaller agencies and facilities may only require part-time assistance and this is an excellent opportunity for students to get some lab experience while still attending school.
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Career TrackFor those glasswashers with strong science background there is often the opportunity to become more involved in the research aspect of the laboratory work especially if they are willing to attend additional trainings and work towards more specific education.
There may be the possibility to advance through to a research assistant or even laboratory assistant with the correct classes and experience.
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CompensationGlasswashers usually make between $6.00 and $7.50 per hour, depending on the level of experience and the additional work that may be assigned to the individual. Since often this is only a part-time job the hours may be variable with some glasswashers working in the late afternoons or early evenings while others work a standard day shift.
Occasionally there are evening and weekend requirements, especially in laboratory settings where there may be research deadlines. Compensation for weekend and evening shifts is usually included in the salary.
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