Laboratory Technician

Job Title: Laboratory TechnicianJob Description

The Laboratory Technician supports scientific research by assisting technical personnel with general laboratory operations and routine laboratory and information-handling tasks. Working under the guidance of a supervisor, this role performs laboratory activities in greenhouse, field, and lab settings using established methods and procedures. The technician follows prescribed training and standard operating procedures to ensure accurate results, reliable data, and a safe working environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist technical personnel with general laboratory operations in support of scientific research.
• Perform routine laboratory tasks using accepted methods and procedures as prescribed by the work group.
• Work in laboratory, greenhouse, and field environments to support research activities.
• Collect and prepare plant samples for analysis.
• Perform DNA extraction using established laboratory techniques.
• Conduct high-throughput PCR (polymerase chain reaction) assays according to standard protocols.
• Manage laboratory inventory, including tracking and organizing reagents, supplies, and equipment.
• Handle sample management, including labeling, tracking, storage, and documentation.
• Use basic computer programs, including Microsoft Excel, to record, organize, and analyze data.
• Document experimental procedures, observations, and results clearly and accurately.
• Communicate findings and progress to supervisors and team members in a clear and timely manner.
• Follow Environmental Health and Safety standards and comply with all laboratory safety policies.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures at all times.
• Adhere to standard operating procedures and quality standards to ensure reliable and reproducible results.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues in a team-oriented research environment.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field is strongly preferred.
• Candidates actively working toward a Bachelor of Science with previous laboratory experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience working in a research laboratory environment.
• Hands-on experience with DNA extraction techniques.
• Practical experience performing PCR (polymerase chain reaction), including high-throughput workflows.
• Familiarity with general laboratory techniques and equipment used in biological and chemical research.
• Proficiency with basic computer programs, including Microsoft Excel, for data entry and organization.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and laboratory protocols accurately.
• Strong written communication skills for clear documentation of methods and results.
• Strong verbal communication skills for effective interaction with supervisors and team members.
• Good organizational skills with the ability to manage samples, inventory, and documentation systematically.
• Commitment to following Environmental Health and Safety standards and laboratory safety protocols.
• Ability to work effectively in laboratory, greenhouse, and field environments as needed.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Degree or coursework in a scientific discipline such as Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.
• Previous experience supporting research activities in a laboratory, greenhouse, or field setting.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in experimental work and data recording.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate in a team-based research environment.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and handle multiple responsibilities.
• Comfort working with standard laboratory software tools and electronic documentation systems.

Work Environment

This role operates in a combination of laboratory, greenhouse, and field environments, supporting research activities across these settings. The position follows a regular schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Laboratory Technician uses standard laboratory equipment and techniques for DNA extraction and high-throughput PCR, as well as basic computer tools such as Microsoft Excel for data management. The work environment emphasizes strict adherence to Environmental Health and Safety standards, including the consistent use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures. The culture supports teamwork, clear communication, and compliance with standard operating procedures to ensure high-quality, reliable research outcomes.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Johnston,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.