Water Testing Laboratory Student Scientist & Community Outreach Technician

Student Advanced Level

Position Summary

STEM is Child's Play Foundation is seeking science students to serve as Water Testing Laboratory Student Scientists supporting the AI Living Lab's free community water-testing program. This position is designed for undergraduate or graduate students in environmental science, chemistry, biology, microbiology, public health, or related STEM disciplines.
Student scientists will schedule and lead mobile water-testing presentations at senior centers and adult community centers, operate the mobile testing lab on-site, perform water-quality testing in front of participants, explain results, and create video and social media content documenting the lab's work.
This position works exclusively with adults. The AI Living Lab operates by appointment only and does not conduct programming with minors in this role.

Key Responsibilities

Community Outreach & Presentations

• Schedule presentations at senior centers, community centers, and adult community organizations
• Coordinate appointments and logistics for the mobile water-testing lab
• Set up and break down the mobile testing station at each location
• Deliver clear, engaging presentations to adult audiences on how to collect a water sample and what the test results mean
• Test participants' water samples on the spot and explain results in plain language

Laboratory & Field Testing

• Perform water-quality testing for available parameters, including pH, TDS, and EC
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain water-quality testing meters and related equipment
• Record test results accurately and maintain field and laboratory logs
• Identify results outside established testing ranges and report them to the Lab Director
• Clearly explain the limitations of the testing program and avoid providing medical, environmental, or regulatory conclusions beyond the lab's scope

Content Creation & Digital Media

• Maintain and grow the AI Living Lab YouTube channel
• Film, edit, and publish videos showing what we do in the lab and how we do it
• Create short-form educational and informational content about water quality, testing methods, and lab activities
• Support the lab's social media presence with photos, reels, and behind-the-scenes content

Minimum Qualifications

• Enrolled in a degree seeking program at UNM, Enrolled at least half-time (6 hours) at UNM for fall and spring semesters (Audit hours do not count), and if Work Study, you must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current enrollment in a STEM degree program — environmental science, chemistry, biology, microbiology, public health, environmental technology, laboratory science, or a related field
• Comfort operating pH, TDS, EC, or similar water-quality meters (training provided)
• Strong public-speaking and interpersonal skills — able to explain science clearly to non-scientists
• Basic video production and editing skills (phone-quality is fine to start; more advanced skills a strong plus)
• Familiarity with YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or similar platforms
• Strong attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred
• Bilingual English/Spanish a plus

Application Instructions

Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. Please submit Cover Letter and Resume. MUST have a Work-Study Award.

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.