Physics Lab Assistant

About Pharo Foundation

Pharo Foundation is a mission-driven, impact-oriented organization working to build a vibrant, productive, and self-reliant Africa. Our development efforts are focused on three core pillars:

• Education – Providing access to high-quality, affordable education that equips students for success in a rapidly changing world.
• Water – Ensuring that communities across Africa have access to clean, safe, and affordable water.
• Productivity – Removing barriers to employment and increasing economic opportunity for individuals and families.

Our for-profit arm, Pharo Ventures, operates sustainable businesses across Ethiopia and Somaliland to drive job creation and economic growth. With over 700 employees across Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Somaliland, Pharo Foundation is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, with a liaison office in London, UK.

Role Summary

The Physics Lab Assistant is responsible for supporting the effective delivery of physics practical sessions by preparing, maintaining, and managing laboratory equipment and experimental setups. The role requires ensuring that all instruments are calibrated, functional, and safe for use, while providing technical assistance during laboratory sessions. The assistant collaborates with instructors to facilitate demonstrations and student experiments, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety procedures. The position also involves maintaining detailed equipment records, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring that the laboratory environment is organized, safe, and conducive to learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and assemble experimental setups for practical lessons, including mechanical, electrical, and optical apparatus
• Calibrate and test laboratory instruments (e.g., voltmeters, ammeters, oscilloscopes, signal generators) to ensure accuracy
• Assist instructors in demonstrating experiments and explaining the proper use of equipment to students
• Supervise students during experiments to ensure correct usage of instruments and adherence to safety guidelines
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on laboratory equipment to ensure proper functioning
• Troubleshoot technical issues during experiments and provide immediate support to minimize disruptions
• Maintain detailed records of laboratory equipment, usage logs, and maintenance schedules
• Ensure safe handling and storage of sensitive and expensive equipment
• Organize and maintain laboratory space to ensure a clean, orderly, and hazard-free environment
• Manage inventory of lab materials and request procurement of new or replacement items when necessary
• Ensure safe use of electrical systems and enforce precautions to prevent accidents or equipment damage
• Assist in developing new experimental setups or improving existing laboratory procedures
• Support external practical exams or assessments by preparing required equipment and materials.

Skills & Competencies

• Solid understanding of basic physics principles, including mechanics, electricity, magnetism, and optics
• Technical proficiency in handling, calibrating, and maintaining laboratory instruments and equipment
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to quickly resolve technical issues during experiments
• Attention to detail in setting up experiments and ensuring accuracy of measurements and results
• Good organizational skills for managing laboratory equipment and maintaining records
• Ability to interpret and follow technical instructions, manuals, and experimental procedures
• Awareness of electrical and mechanical safety standards and practices
• Effective communication skills for assisting students and coordinating with instructors
• Ability to work under pressure during practical sessions while maintaining accuracy and safety

Qualification and Experience

• Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Laboratory Technology, Physics, or a related science field.
• Prior experience working as a laboratory technician in a school, college, or research setting is an advantage.
• Practical knowledge of Physics laboratory equipment, apparatus, and procedures.
• Training or certification in laboratory safety and chemical handling is an advantage.