Consultant - Lab Assistant

Development Alternatives (DA) is a premier social enterprise pioneering sustainable development solutions since 1982. DA is committed to creating a world where everyone can live secure, healthy, and fulfilling lives in harmony with nature.

Through integrated clean technology solutions, micro-enterprise development, and collaborative institutional ecosystems, DA bridges practice and policy, working with partners to catalyze large-scale action toward sustainable livelihoods and environmental regeneration.

DA's Work Addresses The Three Interconnected Crises Of Our Time - Jobs, Resources, And Climate - Through Impact Across Three Inter-linked, Core Areas

• Livelihood Security and Inclusive Entrepreneurship - Innovative business models and institutional ecosystems to empower local entrepreneurs to create businesses that generate jobs and deliver basic needs.
• Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy - Accelerating the transition to inclusive and circular modes of production and consumption by reducing carbon and material footprints across the lifecycle of economic activity while promoting local value and wealth creation.
• Climate Resilience and Ecosystem Restoration - Helping in conserving and regenerating biodiversity, degraded ecosystems, and building resilience to climate change and extreme events in a manner that also generates prosperity.

Role Overview
The Water Quality Assistant will be responsible for collecting and preparing water samples, conducting physical, chemical, and microbiological tests using standard procedures, and ensuring accurate documentation of test results.

The role includes maintaining laboratory equipment, adhering to quality control protocols, and assisting in reporting and inventory management. The ideal candidate will ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory norms

(e.g., BIS/WHO) while supporting the overall functioning and hygiene of the laboratory

Roles & Responsibilities

• Sample Collection & Preparation
• Collect water samples from designated sources (taps, wells, tanks, borewells, etc.) following standard safety and sampling procedures.
• Label, record, and transport samples properly to avoid contamination.
• Prepare reagents, testing solutions, and glassware as per testing requirements.
• Testing & Analysis
• Conduct physical, chemical, and microbiological tests using water testing kits (e.g., pH, turbidity, hardness, chlorine, TDS, iron, fluoride, nitrate).
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for each test and ensure accuracy in readings.
• Calibrate testing instruments and maintain proper functioning of kits and meters.
• Data Recording & Reporting
• Record test results accurately in logbooks, worksheets, or digital systems.
• Compare findings with standard permissible limits (e.g., BIS/WHO norms).
• Prepare daily, weekly, or monthly test reports and submit them to the Lab Technician or Supervisor.
• Quality Control & Maintenance
• Maintain cleanliness of the laboratory and all testing equipment.
• Check expiry dates of reagents and replace when necessary.
• Assist in maintaining inventory of test kits, chemicals, and consumables.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety and hygiene protocols.

Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum educational qualification:
• 12th Pass with Chemistry as a subject (Science stream), or
• Bachelor's degree (B.Sc.) in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related field (preferred).
• Basic understanding of water testing procedures and laboratory practices.
• Ability to handle chemical reagents and testing equipment safely and accurately.
• Familiarity with standard safety protocols and quality control procedures.
• Willingness to travel for sample collection (if required).
• Good record-keeping and reporting skills (manual or digital).
• Prior experience in a water testing lab or similar environment will be an added advantage.