Search 
jobs
Explore 
organizations
Join talent network
Talent
My job alerts

Instructional Associate - Sciences

Orange Coast College

Orange Coast College

Fountain Valley, CA, USA
Posted on Mar 6, 2026

Definition

(ON-CAMPUS - In-Person Position)

Summary
Provides technical and instructional assistance to students involved in technical or scientific disciplines that include laboratory settings designed to further their knowledge. Sets up, demonstrates, oversees, and designs tests or simulation situations to support learning in compliance with student lab requirements.

Distinguishing Career Features
The Instructional Associate for Sciences supports instruction in classroom and scheduled classroom lab environments supporting chemistry, biology, math, physics, and related curricula. It is part of a career path for instructional and laboratory support. Instructional Lab Assistant is the first level, generally working under the guidance of an Associate, concentrating on preparations and having minimal involvement with in-class demonstrations. The Assistant may work with pre-college level courses. Advancement to Associate requires compliance with the stated qualifications, namely a subject matter-specific degree, the ability to perform classroom demonstrations, and support all levels of coursework in the assigned subjects. Advancement potential exists to Instructional Lab Coordinator where the requirement is to oversee scheduled and walk-in labs in addition to providing in-class support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Specific duties may vary among departments, divisions and jobs. Incumbents typically perform a substantial portion or all the following types of duties, as assigned:
1. Works with students individually and in class-sized groups to enhance their learning. Provides direct assistance in the use of equipment and materials needed for instruction as well as orienting students to the laboratory. Sets up established laboratory experiences for students as required by course outline or faculty direction.
2. Works with faculty/instructional administrator to design, construct, troubleshoot, modify or rebuild equipment, modules, and experiments that will be used in the classrooms/laboratories in a division comprised of various related but different subject areas.
3. Assists instructors in the classroom/laboratory concurrently with lecture or discussion. May perform more dangerous and/or complex procedures for students.
4. Receives study and simulation modules from faculty members, then, facilitates discussion and/or lab work with small groups of students who are participating in the exercises.
5. Administers learning simulations, tests and quizzes to students as provided by instructors in class, lab, or remote access environment. Assists instructors by administering make-up tests.
6. Designs, constructs and/or fabricates equipment, modules, and experiments that will assist the instructor in the delivery of desired instructional outcomes.
7. Initiates orders for equipment, materials, and supplies from approved vendors such as but not limited to chemicals, reagents, fuels, apparatus, etc., and written materials required for student instructional needs.
8. Makes repairs to equipment and learning assistance devices. Checks out and maintains control over tools, equipment, supplies, and materials used by students. May be required to maintain contact with appropriate vendors.
9. Maintains records of laboratory activity, including typing forms or inputting data or otherwise retaining information regarding the acquisition, maintenance and distribution of tools, equipment, materials, supplies, and/or written materials.
10. Maintains up-to-date documentation of hazardous or dangerous materials, substances, and chemicals.
11. Provides for the general cleanliness and security of the laboratory or shop work area. Handles and disposes of harmful or hazardous materials according to specific instructions relating to their disposal. Participates in providing for a safe environment for the conduct of the laboratory. Reports maintenance problems as they occur.
12. Oversees the work of student helpers. Coordinates their activities in support of the instructional goals. Trains student helpers in appropriate technical aspects of their work. May maintain records for pay purposes.
13. Assists with the budgeting process through research and assembly of pertinent historic information and projections. Administers approved budgets. Initiates purchase requisitions for supplies, equipment and services.
14. Performs other related duties as assigned that support the objective of the position.
15. Required to abide by all District policies and procedures including Board Policy 3050 – Code of Professional Ethics.

Qualifications and Physical Demands

Qualifications
Knowledge and Skills
1. The position requires working knowledge of principles and properties of general and analytical, biology, chemistry, or physics.
2. Requires working knowledge of chemical reactions.
3. Requires working knowledge in the use of basic-to-advanced scientific and laboratory equipment.
4. Requires in-depth knowledge of laboratory or workshop procedures, organization, equipment, tests, experiments, and simulations.
5. Requires knowledge of safe and proper handling of harmful chemicals, substances, and hazardous wastes.
6. Requires a well-developed knowledge of instructional methods and techniques.
7. Requires advanced mathematics skills to make calculations for preparation of chemical solutions and compounds, including statistical confidence limits, algebraic computations, weights volumes, and percentages.
8. Requires enough knowledge of computers to use common desktop and specialized applications used in education.
9. Requires enough knowledge of the English language to prepare correspondence and materials suitable for classroom presentation.
10. Requires knowledge of tutoring techniques including students’ styles of learning.
11. Requires enough human relations skills to facilitate learning with groups of students, oversee student workers, and to convey technical concepts to others.
12. Requires sensitivity to the needs of students of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

Abilities
1. Requires the ability perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the position.
2. Requires the ability to deliver instruction to small groups and individual students, design and set up laboratory assignments, experiments, simulations, and tests, as well as student projects.
3. Requires the ability to prepare instructional equipment, solutions, and solids for laboratory experiments.
4. Requires the ability to operate, calibrate, and perform minor repairs to laboratory equipment and tools.
5. Requires the ability to conduct research of educational materials, equipment, and related information for purchases, grants, and budget proposals.
6. Requires the ability to maintain the lab and equipment in a safe and organized manner, including the handling of hazardous or dangerous materials and equipment as required for some labs.
7. Requires the ability to instruct students in the use of equipment and programs.
8. Requires the ability to perform routine record keeping and report writing duties.
9. Requires the ability to organize and prioritize work and manage time effectively.
10. Requires the ability to communicate in both formal and informal settings with students, instructors, and other interested parties.
11. Requires the ability to coordinate the activities of work-study students.

Additional Preferred Ability & Knowledge
1. Basic working knowledge of Organic Chemistry.
2. Knowledge of record keeping consistent with inventory control on a computer in compliance with the Office of Health and Safety.
3. Ability to work independently in the absence of supervision.
4. Ability to plan, organize, and schedule a variety of work and activities.
5. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, including individuals from diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, ethnic, and disability backgrounds.

Physical Abilities
1. The general physical demands, working conditions, and essential job functions associated with this classification will be kept on file with the Office of Human Resources.
2. Essential functions will vary by position.
3. As defined by Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”), the District shall engage in a timely, good faith interactive process with employees or employment applicants who are requesting or are in need of reasonable accommodations and, provide reasonable accommodations for employees or employment applicants who, because of their disability, are limited in or unable to perform one or more of the essential functions of their job in accordance with applicable state and federal law.

Education and Experience
The position typically requires 15 units of upper division coursework in biology, chemistry, or physics and one year of experience in a science or medical lab environment. Or, any combination of education and experience that would meet the required qualifications. A Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related science is preferred.

Additional Preferred Qualifications:
1. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, chemical engineering or related field.
2. Two years of experience in an instructional/laboratory setting in a similar position. Or, any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities.

AND

Demonstrated evidence of responsiveness to and understanding of the racial, ethnic, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic, academic, and cultural diversity within the community college student population, including students with different ability statuses (e.g., physical and/or learning) as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded practice within the classroom.

Licenses and Certificates
May require a valid driver license.

Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors where significant safety considerations exist from physical labor, handling of medium weight, yet, awkward materials, and handling of volatile chemicals.

This job specification describes the general nature of the work performed, representative duties as well as the typical qualifications needed for acceptable performance. It is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, work steps, and skills required of the job.

Note: D.E.I.A. - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism The Coast Community College District (Orange Coast College, Golden West College, and Coastline) continues to strengthen our efforts around diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and anti-racism. The Coast Community College District is focused on creating a culture of inclusive excellence by uplifting employees and students through an environment that is equitable, diverse, inclusive, and accessible. We have a strong focus and importance on D.E.I.A. and Anti-Racism (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) and will be actively listening, assessing, and evaluating this throughout each stage of the application, recruitment, and interview process.

Conditions of Employment

Note: To be eligible for employment, you must possess authorization to work in the United States. The District does not sponsor visas or take over any established visa sponsorship.

This is a permanent, general funded, full-time, 12-months per year classified position. The normal hours of work will be Monday through Thursday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the flexibility to occasionally work extended hours and/or weekends, if necessary, to meet the department's needs. The effective date of employment will be arranged with the supervisor. The District provides medical, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and eligible dependents and life insurance for the employee. (Salary Schedule: EE-115) (Download PDF reader)

Please note that job offers are conditional and are contingent upon the successful completion of satisfactory comprehensive background check (including Livescan fingerprinting) and satisfactory references, and approval or ratification by the District’s Board of Trustees or the Chancellor.

Regular attendance is considered an essential job function; the inability to meet attendance requirements may preclude the employee from retaining employment. The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in Coast Community College District policies, procedures, and Title IX. (Reference: BP/AP 5910 ) The Coast Community College District celebrates all forms of diversity and is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment within which students, staff, administrators, and faculty thrive. Individuals interested in advancing the District's strategic diversity goals are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose.

Pay Philosophy:
Coast Community College District, through policies, practices, and other benefit programs, delivers a fair and equitable total compensation program that promotes equal employment opportunity, inclusion, and workforce vitality. In general, it is the policy of the District to place new employees at the first step of the salary grade. All movement on the salary schedule will occur July 1 of each year for all classified employees. Application Requirements:
Application materials must be electronically submitted online at http://www.cccd.edu/employment to be considered for employment.

Incomplete applications, application materials submitted by mail, and documents not requested in the job announcement will not be considered. Please note that the district does not return materials submitted in the application process (copies of original supporting documents are acceptable).

A complete application packet includes:

  1. A complete Coast Community College District Online Employment Application.
  2. Responses to Supplemental Questions (please provide clear and detailed responses, as they will be carefully evaluated to determine the most qualified candidate(s) to be invited for an interview; please do not paste your resume, put "see resume" or "N/A", or leave blank).
  3. A Cover Letter highlighting your experiences relevant to this position and addressing the minimum and essential qualifications, including your demonstrated evidence of D.E.I.A. (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Access). (upload as a separate attachment - PDF recommended).
  4. A Current Resume of professional and educational background and experience (upload as a separate attachment - PDF recommended).

Submit an application online at:
http://www.cccd.edu/employment
Coast Community College District – Human Resources
1370 Adams Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Individuals who need reasonable accommodations in accordance with ADA should notify the Human Resources Office for assistance or call 714.438.4716.

*Note: We have a strong focus and importance on D.E.I.A. and Anti-Racism (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) and will be actively listening, assessing, and evaluating this throughout each stage of the application, recruitment, and interview process.

Submission of all required application information and materials is the responsibility of the applicant. All application materials become the property of the Coast Community College District and will NOT be copied or returned. To ensure consistency and fairness to all applicants, please do not submit materials in addition to those requested. Additional materials will not be considered or returned. Be sure to complete all questions and sections of the application. If you do not know an answer, please indicate so, but do not leave any space blank.

All applications will be screened under a process of utmost confidentiality by a committee of representatives from the college community. Please note: Possession of the minimum qualifications does not ensure an interview.

Any documents that you are unable to attach can be emailed to jobs@cccd.edu. Emails must clearly indicate the job you are applying to and your full name.

Additional Information

Selection Procedure

  • All online applications received by the application deadline will be screened to determine which applicants meet the minimum qualifications as stated in the job announcement. Please note: Possession of the minimum qualifications does not ensure an interview.
  • Applicants wishing to apply for more than one position must submit separate application materials for each desired position.
  • Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and who are also deemed to possess the highest committee evaluation will be invited to an interview.
  • If any travel is required for an applicant to participate in person during the interview process, this will be done so at the candidate's own expense.
  • During the interview, candidates may be asked to conduct a short oral demonstration/presentation on a previously announced topic as well as participate in a writing exercise, or hands-on practical.
  • Consideration will also be given to factors in addition to education and experience, including but not limited to professional development, ability to work with others, and commitment to meet student needs.
  • The search committee will rate the candidate's responses to the interview questions, the demonstration/presentation, and the applicable writing exercises and/or hands-on practicals. Based on this rating, a number of candidates will be recommended to move forward and will be invited for a second-level interview.
  • The hiring manager will conduct reference checks on the final candidate. The district reserves the right to contact the current or most recent employer and to investigate past employment records of applicants selected for interviews.
  • The campus President will make the final recommendation for employment to the Board of Trustees.
  • The start date will be determined based on the needs of the campus and the conditions of employment as posted in the job announcement/recruitment.
  • Applicants who are eliminated from consideration will be notified by email. All applicants are requested to provide an email address in their online application. Candidates should not expect official notification of the status of their candidacy until the Board of Trustees has acted upon the College's recommendation for employment.
  • The District reserves the right to extend the deadline, re-advertise the position, or delay filling this position based on the needs of the District and the student population we serve.

Employment Information

  • Regular attendance is considered an essential job function; the inability to meet attendance requirements may preclude the employee from retaining employment.
  • The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in Coast Community College District policies, procedures, and Title IX. (Reference: BP/AP 5910)
  • The Coast Community College District celebrates all forms of diversity and is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment within which students, staff, administrators, and faculty thrive. Individuals interested in advancing equity and inclusion goals are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose.

The SELECTED CANDIDATE is required to complete the following prior to employment:

  • Provide a Certificate of Tuberculosis Exam for initial appointment (Note: The certificate must be renewed every 4 years as a condition of continuing employment).
  • Have fingerprints taken by a Live Scan computer at the candidate’s expense (Clearance must be received prior to the first day of employment).
  • Present original documents for proof of eligibility to work in the United States including a Social Security Card; (Note: We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.) AND
  • Participate in a new hire onboarding appointment with an Employment Services Representative.

Coast Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The Coast Community College District is committed to employing qualified administrators/managers, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students. We are committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and equal consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not discriminate unlawfully in providing educational or employment opportunities to any person on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

The Coast Community College District is a multi-college district that includes Coastline College, Golden West College, and Orange Coast College. The three colleges offer programs in transfer, general education, occupational/technical education, community services, and student support services.

Since its founding in 1947, the Coast Community College District has enjoyed a reputation as one of the leading community college districts in the United States. Governed by a locally elected Board of Trustees, the Coast Community College District plays an important role in the community by responding to the needs of a changing and increasingly diverse population.

Coast Community College District Title IX (For more information on Title IX click here)

https://www.cccd.edu/employees/hr/title9/Pages/Staff-and-Faculty-Resources.aspx

The 2025 Coast Community College District Annual Security and Fire Safety (Download PDF reader) provides the crime statistics for calendar years 2022, 2023, and 2024, which were submitted to the U.S. Department of Education as required under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. A hard copy can be obtained from one of the Campus Safety Offices. Please contact any of the Campus Safety Offices for any questions.

Title IX & Sex Discrimination

https://www.cccd.edu/employees/hr/title9/Pages/Staff-and-Faculty-Resources.aspx

See more open positions at Orange Coast College
Privacy policyCookie policy