Some people prefer to have a set schedule so they can more efficiently budget their time. For them we have a limited number of regular weekly time slots (usually 2pm-6pm on Weekdays).

We strongly urge new employees to sign up for a regular time slot - it's a good way to learn about the department, making you more valuable for the non-scheduled work which comes up.

Since so much of our work is event-driven (read "unpredictable"), we have a lot of need for technicians to work specific events at various (and frequently odd) times. We will advise you of these events by sending out email, posting them on the bulletin board outside our office, or on occasion calling you and asking you if you can work.

Many people find the "random scheduling" aspect of the job appealing, being able to work a lot on light weeks, and declining work when you have 2 papers due and a midterm coming up.  There is no minimum number of hours you have to work.  Just make it worth our while to get you on payroll and train you.