Laboratory Technician

Classification Title

Laboratory Technician I

Associate's degree in an appropriate area of specialization or a high school diploma and two years of related experience. Appropriate college course work or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

This position will support research activities in the laboratory by maintaining greenhouse citrus plants and insect cultures used in experiments. Duties will include watering, fertilizing, pruning, monitoring plant health, propagating and organizing citrus plants, and assisting with greenhouse sanitation. The position will also involve rearing and maintaining insect colonies, preparing plants for experiments, monitoring colony health and numbers, and helping ensure that research materials are available when needed.

The individual will work closely with laboratory personnel to support ongoing studies on citrus pests, plant–insect interactions, and pest management. Driving to greenhouses will be required.

Maintenance of insect cultures for use in the research program; preparation, manipulation, confirmation of plants and insects or DNA extractions, and aiding with general laboratory maintenance activities. The incumbent will collect data and maintain data sheets for subsequent analysis. Daily tasks may include maintaining laboratory equipment and gathering supplies for field experiments. Maintenance of clean laboratory environment. Responsible for maintaining continuity of form for computer reduction of data and for maintaining access to data for review and analysis purposes.

Other duties assigned by supervisor.

$16.76 per hour

Associate’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization or a high school diploma and two years of related experience. Appropriate college course work or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Two years of experience in citrus care and pest management. Experience in maintaining insects and plants in greenhouse environments.