Operations Assistant at WonderLab (On-site)

Who We Are:
WonderLab is a cutting-edge storytelling studio founded by National Geographic Explorer and award-winning photographer, Anand Varma. Based in Berkeley, California, WonderLab combines science and storytelling to create visual media that pushes the boundaries of how we perceive the world around us. Working with a wide range of subjects ranging from cuttlefish to butterflies, we aim to showcase the beauty, complexity, and wonder of nature that is often invisible to the naked eye.

At WonderLab, we are driven by curiosity, passion, collaboration, and innovation. We work at the intersection of science, art, engineering, and education to reveal biological phenomena in ways that fascinate and inspire. With support from the National Geographic Society, our goal is not only to document the wonders of nature but also to spark curiosity and inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world we live in. See more at: www.nationalgeographic.org/society/our-programs/wonderlab/

Who You Are:
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented individual to support our lab with a variety of operational tasks. This is a dynamic role, perfect for someone who thrives in maintaining order and helping our daily operations run as smoothly as possible. Ideally, we're looking for someone who enjoys meticulous organization and excels at managing physical inventory, while continuously learning new skills in a technical environment. Prior experience with animal husbandry and basic fabrication are a plus. If you are someone who enjoys structure, organization, and making a tangible impact by helping the lab function smoothly, we'd love to hear from you!

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

• Organize Equipment: clean, label, and sort all tools, materials, and office supplies 
• Implement New Organization Systems: collaborate with the team to implement and maintain new organizational systems.
• Put Away Unused Equipment: ensure all unused equipment is put away on an ongoing basis.
• Equipment Maintenance: clean, repair, and maintain equipment as needed.
• Animal Care Assistance: help with animal care tasks, ensuring the health and well-being of the animals in the lab.
• Basic Fabrication Support: assist with basic fabrication tasks such as drilling and tapping holes, cutting plastic and glass, assembling photography setups, etc.
• Product Returns & Repairs: process product returns and send equipment for repair when in-house fixes are not possible.
• Reorder Supplies: manage supply inventory and reorder materials when necessary.

Required Skills & Attributes:

• Positive Attitude: a friendly, proactive, and can-do approach to all tasks.
• Attention to Detail: precision and accuracy are essential in every task, from labeling bins to fabricating parts.
• Good Working Memory: ability to remember instructions without needing frequent repetition.
• Good Spatial Memory: comfortable with organizing spaces and remembering where things belong.
• Effective Communication: able to ask for help when needed, give constructive feedback, and voice concerns in a timely manner.
• Fine Motor Skills: capable of performing detailed tasks with accuracy and care.

Additional Notes:

• This role is focused on operations, not photography.

Job Details

• Hours: 30-40 hours/week
• Compensation: $25-$35/hr (depending on experience)
• Exemption Status: non-exempt – this role is eligible for overtime pay and subject to the rules and regulations of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
• Paid Sick Leave: 40 hours (five days) of accrued paid sick leave per year

We will endeavor to respond to all applications submitted via this job listing or studio@varmaphoto.com – depending on the sheer volume of applications, we may be unable to respond to each applicant personally.

WonderLab is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workspace for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply.