Molecular Lab Analyst

Job Title: Molecular Lab Analyst

Job Description

The Molecular Lab Analyst (Laboratory Analyst II) performs general sample preparation, DNA extractions, and routine PCR and qPCR testing to support GMO analysis of agricultural and food products. This role focuses on executing established testing methods, analyzing results, troubleshooting laboratory processes, supporting quality systems, and maintaining compliance with laboratory procedures and regulatory requirements. The position offers the opportunity to work with modern equipment in a growing laboratory, contribute to a variety of projects, and potentially transition to a full-time role.

Responsibilities

• Perform quantitative and qualitative GMO testing on corn, soy, and processed food products using established PCR and qPCR methods.
• Prepare samples, including grinding received grain and food samples, and accurately prepare reagents, controls, standards, and PCR plates in accordance with laboratory SOPs and quality standards.
• Conduct DNA extractions and molecular assays while maintaining aseptic technique to avoid sample contamination.
• Use 96-well plates and transfer to 384-well plates, applying precise single-channel, multi-channel, and micro-pipetting techniques.
• Analyze test results, perform required calculations, and document findings accurately and completely in laboratory systems.
• Troubleshoot PCR workflows, instrumentation issues, and testing deviations to ensure timely, accurate, and reliable results.
• Support nonconformance investigations and root cause analysis related to laboratory testing and processes.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration checks, and minor repairs on laboratory equipment to ensure proper function and data integrity.
• Execute and document QA/QC activities in accordance with SOPs, quality systems, and applicable regulatory or accreditation requirements.
• Assist with revisions to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the Quality Management System (QMS).
• Help train new laboratory staff on methods, procedures, and quality practices as needed.
• Cross-train in mycotoxin testing using LCMS following established procedures.
• Manage varying sample volumes, typically 10–15 samples during off-season and 30–60 samples during peak harvest seasons, while meeting turnaround time expectations.
• Work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced testing environment, adjusting workflow and hours as needed based on sample flow and customer requirements.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety practices and maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work area.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• 2–4 years of laboratory experience with hands-on PCR and qPCR testing.
• Strong pipetting skills, including single-channel, multi-channel, and micro-pipetting, with the ability to work precisely and consistently.
• Demonstrated experience in DNA extraction and molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to prepare reagents and PCR reactions manually without relying on commercial kits.
• Proficiency in sample preparation, including grinding and handling of agricultural and food matrices.
• Strong laboratory documentation skills with attention to detail and data integrity.
• Ability to troubleshoot laboratory processes, PCR workflows, and instrumentation issues.
• Experience working in or familiarity with regulated laboratory environments such as ISO, GMP, GLP, or similar quality systems (preferred).
• Capability to lift up to 25 pounds from floor to ceiling as needed during the shift.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced testing environment while managing changing priorities and sample volumes.
• Comfort working with molecular biology, chemistry, and quality control concepts in a laboratory setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience executing QA/QC activities within a formal quality management system.
• Experience in agricultural, food, or grain testing laboratories.
• Hands-on experience with LCMS or mycotoxin testing, or a strong interest in cross-training in these methods.
• Familiarity with ISO, GMP, or GLP requirements and documentation practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a methodical approach to root cause analysis and nonconformance investigations.
• Effective communication skills for documenting results, collaborating with colleagues, and supporting training activities.
• Ability to contribute to SOP development and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Service-oriented mindset with a focus on meeting customer turnaround times and demonstrating the value of a growing laboratory.
• Team-oriented attitude, willing to support colleagues and share responsibilities in a small, collaborative group.

Work Environment

This role is based in a small molecular laboratory located within a corporate headquarters. The lab is equipped with newer instrumentation and offers the opportunity to work on a variety of projects as the operation grows. The team is small, with a close-knit, family feel where colleagues support one another and collaborate to complete testing. You will interact with other personnel onsite but work most closely with laboratory staff and scientists.

The work involves handling ground grain and food samples, so the environment can be dusty at times. Noise levels vary depending on activities; grinding equipment can make the lab loud, while other times it may be quiet. Wearing headphones or earbuds is permitted when the lab is loud, provided you remain able to communicate effectively with the team.

The facility is pet-friendly, and there may be dogs or cats present in office areas, though animals are not allowed inside the laboratory itself. Standard laboratory attire and safety practices apply within the lab.

Typical hours fall within an 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. window, Monday through Friday, with flexibility required based on sample flow and customer turnaround times. Overtime may occasionally be needed but is expected to be limited, with an emphasis on flexibility rather than consistently late hours. The culture is collaborative, team-oriented, and service-focused, with an emphasis on building a strong reputation for the new lab and supporting one another to meet testing and quality goals. Contract employment includes holiday pay and offers the potential for transition to a full-time role as the lab continues to grow.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint Charles, MO.

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $32.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Saint Charles,MO.

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.