Lab Technician - Tissue Culture

Lab Technician - Tissue Culture at Ball Horticultural Company

The Laboratory Technician plays a critical role in the supply of high quality tissue culture (TC) plants used as inputs in vegetative cutting production, seed production, and offshore TC production. Preparing the medium for all TC activities is extremely important. This position will also be actively involved in the execution of the laboratory’s sustainability program. Key aspects of this role include great attention to detail, flexibility, the ability to thrive in an interactive, goal‑oriented team environment, and working with minimal daily supervision.

As a team member of Ball Helix TC Services, you will support a variety of TC activities.

Full‑time

• Maintain high quality ELITE TC stock to ensure availability to start TC production orders
• Build‑up and propagate TC orders received from customers worldwide to ensure the customer receives high quality TC plants in full and on time to start their production cycle
• Assist in re‑initiation of varieties into TC to keep the ELITE TC stock up‑to‑date and true‑to‑type
• Assist in the preparation, packing and shipping of TC orders shipped worldwide to ensure on‑time delivery of high quality TC plants
• Participate in the laboratory’s sustainability program to reuse, reduce and recycle polypropylene (PP) TC vessels and glass tubes with PP caps
• Participate in light lab cleaning duties to maintain high cleanliness standards in the laboratory and culture rooms

• Previous experience in a plant research or tissue culture lab, horticulture or manufacturing/production role preferred
• High school diploma or GED required
• Well organized and detail‑oriented
• Work in a sterile environment to keep the plant cultures sterile
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills
• Acts with a clear sense of ownership
• Operates effectively even when things are uncertain or the way forward is not clear
• Collaborates with others to get work done
• Shows personal commitment and takes action to continuously improve
• Does not smoke or use tobacco products due to contamination threat of plant viruses related to these products

• Ability to lift/carry 25 lbs 5% of the day
• Ability to push/pull 20 lbs 5% of the day
• Ability to sit/stand 100% of the day
• Ability to kneel/bend 5% of the day
• Ability to reach 20% of the day
• Ability to use hands/fingers 100% of the day
• Ability to work in an indoor lab and office climate‑controlled environment for 100% of the day

We create excitement in the world of flowers and are the first choice for service. We deliver a work environment and a culture where building lasting relationships internally and externally is important. We believe good communication, sharing ideas and collaborating on projects will set us up for success. We keep both our feet on the ground and are approachable. In addition we provide a comprehensive Total Rewards package:

• Medical, dental, life and long‑term disability insurance
• 401(k)/Profit Sharing Retirement Plan
• Paid time off benefits including vacation and holidays
• Tuition assistance
• Employee Assistance Program and Positive Health programs
• An onsite subsidized café overlooking renowned display gardens and restored natural areas

$17‑18/hour