Lab Assistant

Job Description

The Lab Assistant supports plant research by collecting samples from soybean and wheat plants and tissues for DNA analysis in a controlled growth chamber facility. This role follows established research protocols, maintains a clean and safe work environment, and contributes to ongoing scientific projects that require high attention to detail and consistent performance against defined metrics.

• Collect samples of soybean and wheat plants and tissues for DNA analysis in accordance with internal research protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Handle plant material accurately and consistently to ensure the integrity and reliability of DNA analysis results.
• Use tools such as tweezers and other laboratory instruments to perform precise, repetitive tasks related to seed chipping, plant handling, and sample preparation.
• Maintain facility cleanliness by following established cleaning routines and adhering to laboratory and greenhouse safety standards.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines while working in growth chambers, laboratory areas, and greenhouse environments.
• Work with plants growing in the chamber facility as needed, including tasks related to plant care, handling, and preparation for research activities.
• Meet established performance metrics for task completion, accuracy, and quality while maintaining a strong focus on detail.
• Follow established protocols and procedures for all research activities, documenting work as required.
• Perform hands-on physical work that includes repetitive gripping and squeezing, bending, reaching, standing, and sitting for extended periods.
• Lift and move materials or equipment weighing up to 25 pounds with or without reasonable accommodations, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Work assigned weekend shifts on a rotating schedule and support research activities on company holidays as needed.
• Collaborate with team members and adapt to changing workload demands, including busy and slower periods throughout the year.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the laboratory, greenhouse, and growth chamber operations.

• High School Diploma.
• Science experience through education and/or experience.
• Research experience with the ability to follow established protocols and procedures accurately.
• High attention to detail and the ability to meet established metrics for task performance.
• Experience working in laboratory, greenhouse, or seed chipping environments.
• Ability to perform repetitive manual tasks such as gripping, squeezing, and using tweezers for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, reach, stand, and sit for extended periods while performing physical work.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds with or without reasonable accommodations and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work assigned weekend shifts on a rotating basis.
• Willingness to work on company holidays as needed.
• Comfort working in warm conditions (approximately 80–85 degrees) inside growth chambers.

• Associate’s Degree or higher, preferably in a science-related field, is preferred.
• Prior experience in a research laboratory, greenhouse, or controlled environment facility.
• Familiarity with seed chipping processes and working with plant materials.
• Strong reliability and consistency in following detailed instructions and protocols.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and adapt to changing schedules and workloads.
• Interest in long-term contract opportunities with potential consideration for full-time roles in a large organization.

The role is based in a large, fully climate-controlled facility that houses 32 growth chambers where soybean plants are grown under carefully managed conditions.…