Laboratory Technician

Overview

JRAD is seeking a Science Laboratory Technician to provide full‑time onsite support at the Plum Island Animal Disease Center on Plum Island, NY.

• Assist with managing the laboratory close‑out process to enable terminal decontamination, including coordinating lab space clean‑out and closures prior to decontamination activities and supporting the coordination of autoclave‑related activities.
• Support the operation of an on‑island mobile laboratory for independent third‑party verification/validation testing of biological and chemical indicators (SCBIs, spore strips, integrators).
• Assist with receiving, processing, and validating biological and chemical indicators as part of facility‑scale decontamination activities.
• Assist scientists conducting viability assessments, authentication, and characterization procedures for biological materials.
• Assist with the preparation and/or propagation of various biological materials under aseptic conditions.
• Support validation work and other tasks within containment areas as required.
• Maintain accurate records of experimental data in digitized data management systems.
• Translate data from notebooks and batch records into advanced databases upon request.
• Support data integration and management, and assist in technology transfer between different data systems.
• Monitor laboratory equipment and report any issues to ensure proper functioning.
• Demonstrate laboratory skills following safety procedures, including proper handling of chemicals and biological materials.
• Work collaboratively with scientists and contractor teams across multiple federal agencies.
• Communicate and coordinate with project stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.
• Draft laboratory documentation including procedures and work instructions.
• Support the drafting of weekly, monthly, and quarterly laboratory and/or progress reports.

• High School Diploma with 7+ years experience OR Associate’s Degree with 4+ years experience OR Bachelor’s Degree with 1+ year experience.
• Strong understanding of aseptic techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen with full‑time residency in the United States.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License.
• Must undergo a required medical examination and vaccinations (as applicable).
• Must pass a pre‑employment drug screening.
• The job requires travel to and from Orient Point, NY or Old Saybrook, CT and Plum Island aboard government‑provided marine vessels.
• Must comply with regulations related to federal facilities and work sites.
• Must be able to stand, sit, and lift up to 50 lbs. for extended periods in a containment laboratory.
• The environment may require exit showering.
• Due to biosecurity requirements, employees may not work with cloven‑hoofed animals, horses, rabbits, pigs, exotic pets, or birds.

• Ability to obtain DHS Suitability and Federal Select Agent Clearance.

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life & Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Section 125 Flexible Spending Accounts for unreimbursed medical & dependent day care
• Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Tuition Reimbursement

JRAD is an equal opportunity employer with respect to all protected groups, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.