Career Center

Middle School Science Lab Assistant (5-8)

Open Window is currently accepting applications for a 2022-23 Science Lab Assistant. This position supports our team of three lead science teachers in the classroom focusing on preparation for lab sessions, supporting students with daily work and additional duties such as grading, data entry, ordering supplies and other projects.

This job requires a passion for the subject area and for education. Positive energy, clear communication, empathy, flexibility, initiative and the ability to collaborate with a commitment to teamwork are key components for success in this position. The lab assistant will take an active role in both the classroom and in the school community. This role serves as a steppingstone for many as they learn and explore valuable skills for future lead teaching opportunities, understanding independent schools and entering graduate programs in the field. 

Requirements include:

• Experience working with students in an educational setting
• Interest in exploring work in education or the sciences
• Previous experience in a science lab as a student of the sciences, lab assistant or other employment
• Supportive of the school’s Diversity Commitment, in which we embrace both our commonalities and complex range of differences that enrich our school.
• Dedication to our mission, in which we inspire and nurture students of high intellectual potential and to promoting our core values: Bobcats are Kind, Inclusive, Respectful and Responsible.

The following are not required, but would enhance a candidate’s application:

• Experience working with students who are identified as gifted or twice exceptional
• Work with middle school students
• Experience helping students with organization, planning, and executive function skills.
• Experience in the subject area or field of study
• Relevant coursework or work experience in the field of science education

Primary duties include, but are not limited to:

• Supporting planning, set-up, running and clean-up of scheduled lab sessions for students
• Inventory and ordering of lab and science room supplies
• Working with students in the classroom in small groups and in one-on-one settings providing support during projects, daily class work and scaffolding for differentiation.
• Active participation in class meetings and other community building activities to build relationships with students and colleagues
• Rotating duties as needed such as greeting/dismissal duty, lunch, break, recess or other classroom coverage.
• Assisting teachers with administrative tasks such as photocopying, creating displays of work, preparing supplies, and grading.
• In coordination with science teachers, connecting with local organizations to assist in carrying out plans for science field trips and partnerships.
• Attending required in service days, admissions events, meetings, seminars, and training sessions.
• Attending and participating in school events both during school days, after school hours and occasionally on weekends.
• Participating in experiential learning field trips (all grades) and overnight experiences
• Maintaining a high level of professionalism and confidentiality
• Engaging in self-assessment and working toward professional goals
• Assuming the Lead Teacher role when necessary

Before and After School Program:

As part of duties rotation, Assistant Teachers may be asked to supervise for one day per week, for one quarter during the school year or cover for an absent coworker.  The before school program begins at 7:15 AM.  The before/after school program is an important part of the students’ day and provides an opportunity to work with a broader age range of students. 

Compensation and Benefits:

This is an exempt, faculty position, not eligible for overtime.  Work schedule is generally 8 AM – 4 PM, Tuesdays until 5:00 PM for faculty meetings. This role requires some commitments outside these hours including, but not limited to school events and Middle School Trips.  Salary is determined based upon education/training, the OWS salary schedule for Associate Teachers can be found here: 22-23 OWS Lead Teacher Salary Schedule.

Important Note: As stated in Governor’s Proclamation 21-14, all employees engaging in work at a private or public school are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to your hire date. Proof of vaccination will be verified by the Human Resources Director after an employment offer has been extended and accepted. Please reach out to Human Resources at hr@ows.org if you need information on a medical or religious accommodation.

 Benefits include:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Health Reimbursement Account
• Health Flexible Spending Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• 403(b) Retirement Account, Pre-tax & Roth Options
  After completing one Year of Service at Open Window, as defined in the Plan’s eligibility terms, 3% of an employee’s eligible monthly salary will be contributed to their Open Window retirement account. A 3% matching contribution will also be made by Open Window each pay period that the employee contributes at least 3% of their eligible pay.
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Educational Assistance Program, providing tuition reimbursement for those pursuing advanced degrees.

To Apply:

Visit Open Window School's Career Opportunities site.

Please submit a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position, your resume, and answers to the Diversity Commitment Questions below. Applicants must submit an answer to both of the following Diversity Commitment Questions as a single word or pdf document:

1. How would you define diversity?
2. Describe how you have demonstrated a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in your current or prior job. If necessary, candidates can draw upon their experience in community organizations if professional experience is limited.

Please be prepared to provide 3-5 professional references and one personal reference if requested. If you are unable to apply online, you are welcome to fax your resume, cover letter, and answers to the Diversity Commitment Questions to 425-644-6320.

Open Window School does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, creed, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, or other status legally protected by local, state, or federal law.