Laboratory Assistant

Position Overview

Are you looking for an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and experience working in a scientific environment? Become a Laboratory Assistant in the Department of Agriculture and learn hands‑on laboratory skills while supporting important animal health work. The work helps keep testing operations running smoothly and provides a direct way to support agricultural communities, protecting the health and safety of Pennsylvanians.

In this position you will support the daily operations of the Pathology and Histology groups by receiving animals and specimens, preparing materials, and assisting with sample processing to ensure accurate testing and safe laboratory practices.

• Specimen Intake:
  Interview submitters, obtain information, review paperwork, and prepare materials for processing.
• Sample Preparation:
  Prepare carcasses and specimens for evaluation and collect tissues as directed.
• Material Processing:
  Package, label, store, and distribute specimens, and maintain accurate data.
• Sanitation Tasks:
  Clean and maintain laboratory areas, tools, instruments, and equipment.
• Waste Handling:
  Assist with proper disposal of carcasses, chemicals, sharps, and other waste materials.
• Quality Support:
  Follow SOPs, document work, and maintain records related to quality assurance.

• Temporary, full‑time position.
• Work hours:
  
  8:00 AM–4:00 PM, Monday–Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch.
• Telework:
  May work from home part‑time 1 day a month with a securely configured high‑speed internet connection in Pennsylvania; telework eligibility may change.
• Alternative location:
  Option to report to headquarters office in Harrisburg.
• Communication:
  Further updates will be provided via email; check spam/junk folders.

• Vaccinated against rabies prior to employment and must maintain up‑to‑date rabies vaccination throughout employment.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.

• Experience in a laboratory setting.
• Experience working with animals, especially livestock/agricultural species.
• Knowledge of agricultural species or agriculture in any capacity.
• Ability to work with animal carcasses, fresh and autolyzed tissues, and bodily fluids.
• Experience with mechanized tools.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed; eligibility details must be provided on the application.
• Submit applications by the posting closing date; late applications will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the application requirements may disqualify you.
• All application materials must reflect the applicant’s own experience; AI may be used only for preparation, not for misrepresentation or during interviews.

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for many state and local government jobs.

• 711 for hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals.

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, discuss your request with the interviewer well in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.

All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.