Laboratory Technician

Job Technician

The Job Technician supports crop transformation and genome editing projects by executing laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to new technology development and process improvement. This role involves hands-on work in a plant science laboratory, close collaboration with supervisors and team members, and active participation in maintaining a safe, high-quality lab environment.

• Follow the direction of supervisors to perform crop transformation and genome editing experiments according to established protocols.
• Collect, organize, and document experimental data accurately and in a timely manner.
• Participate in new technology development and process improvement studies in crop transformation, including planning experiments, testing hypotheses, making observations, and performing data analysis.
• Adhere to all safety policies, protocols, and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for self and team members.
• Support team activities such as explant preparation, equipment maintenance, media assessment and improvement, culture room maintenance, process optimization, and information management.
• Provide technical support to colleagues and conduct experiments with a respectful, collaborative, and positive team spirit.
• Prepare clear summaries and reports for supervisors that describe experimental methods, results, and conclusions.
• Present experimental results internally and at external meetings when needed, using effective oral and written communication.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely records of experimental procedures, observations, and data in lab notebooks and electronic systems.
• Follow procedures and instructions carefully while also being able to carry out experiments independently when appropriate.
• Contribute to the custodianship of laboratory equipment by using instruments properly, performing basic maintenance, and reporting issues promptly.
• Support a high-quality laboratory environment through strict adherence to lab safety practices and good laboratory housekeeping.

• Laboratory skills in plant science, biological science, genetics, or a related field such as horticulture or biotechnology.
• Bachelor's or Associate degree in plant science, biological science, genetics, or a related discipline such as horticulture or biotechnology.
• Knowledge and experience in general laboratory operations, including handling equipment, reagents, and samples.
• Ability to follow procedures and instructions accurately and consistently.
• Ability to carry out experiments independently while maintaining alignment with established protocols.
• Strong sampling skills and attention to detail in experimental setup and execution.
• Ability to maintain complete, accurate, and timely records of experimental data and procedures.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software for data entry, analysis, and reporting.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for documenting work and presenting results.
• Demonstrated ability to function both independently and as a respectful, collaborative team member.
• Commitment to strict adherence to laboratory safety practices and protocols.

• Plant tissue culture and transformation experience is preferred but not required.
• Prior laboratory experience, particularly in plant science, biology, chemistry, or microbiology, is strongly preferred.
• Experience in microbiology or related laboratory techniques is beneficial.
• Familiarity with databases and/or Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) is a plus.
• Experience with detailed record keeping and documentation in a scientific or technical environment.
• Ability to support a high-quality laboratory environment through custodianship of equipment and proactive maintenance.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple experiments or tasks simultaneously.
• Collaborative mindset with a positive, respectful approach to working with diverse team members.

This role is based in a laboratory environment focused on crop transformation and genome editing within plant science and related disciplines. The Job Technician works with standard laboratory equipment, culture rooms, and media preparation areas, and uses tools such as Microsoft Office and, where applicable, databases or Laboratory Information Management Systems to manage data and information. The position involves following strict safety protocols, maintaining clean and orderly work spaces, and caring for laboratory instruments and facilities.

Work is highly collaborative, with frequent interaction with supervisors and team members, while also requiring periods of independent experimental work and data analysis in a structured, process-driven setting.

This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA.

The pay range for this position is $32.00 - $32.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of…