Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician

Cooke Aquaculture Inc.; Charlottetown; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental benefits

Opportunities for professional develop

Access to advanced laboratory training

Job summary

Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd., a division of Cooke Aquaculture Inc., invites applications for a Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician at our Bay Fortune, PEI facility. You will support molecular biology studies, maintain equipment, and work with researchers in a fast-paced, on-land aquaculture lab environment.

The role requires a Diploma or Bachelor’s in molecular biology or related field, strong lab skills, and the ability to collaborate with a team. Health benefits and ongoing training are provided.

Qualifications

• Diploma or bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, or a related field.
• Experience with basic molecular biology laboratory techniques and aseptic techniques.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented laboratory environment.
• Preferred: prior experience in a research laboratory or biotech company.
• Familiarity with cell culture, bacterial culture, or CRISPR techniques.
• Experience using laboratory data management systems.

Responsibilities

• Perform DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, and gel electrophoresis.
• Prepare reagents, buffers, and culture media for laboratory experiments.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment while ensuring overall lab organization.
• Record and analyze experimental data using laboratory software and spreadsheets.
• Assist in sample preparation and processing for downstream analyses.
• Follow laboratory safety protocols and maintain compliance with regulatory and company standards.
• Manage inventory, order supplies, and maintain laboratory documentation.
• Support researchers with experimental design, optimization, and troubleshooting when required.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Communication

Time management

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology/biotechnology

Job description

Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd., a division of Cooke Aquaculture Inc., a dynamic and growing East Coast family company, with Platinum Member status in Canada’s Best Managed Companies Program, is offering a unique opportunity for a highly motivated individual to join the Company’s team in Bay Fortune, PEI as Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician for our Atlantic Canada on land aquaculture facilities.

Cooke is a global seafood company with operations in North America, Europe, and South America. Our company’s success is driven by our dynamic, highly skilled, and innovative management team, supported by dedicated employees who live in coastal communities and contribute to the local area’s economy and sense of community.

The Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician to join our team. The successful candidate will assist with laboratory experiments, maintain equipment, and support researchers in conducting molecular biology studies. This role requires strong laboratory skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, and gel electrophoresis.
• Prepare reagents, buffers, and culture media for laboratory experiments.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment while ensuring overall lab organization.
• Record and analyze experimental data using laboratory software and spreadsheets.
• Assist in sample preparation and processing for downstream analyses.
• Follow laboratory safety protocols and maintain compliance with regulatory and company standards.
• Manage inventory, order supplies, and maintain laboratory documentation.
• Support researchers with experimental design, optimization, and troubleshooting when required.

Qualifications

Required

• Diploma or bachelor's degree in molecular biology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Experience with basic molecular biology laboratory techniques and aseptic techniques.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented laboratory environment.

Preferred

• Previous experience in a research laboratory or biotech company.
• Familiarity with cell culture, bacterial culture, or CRISPR techniques.
• Experience using laboratory data management systems.

Skills

• High attention to detail and accuracy in laboratory work.
• Strong problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Strong time-management skills with the ability to coordinate multiple experiments.

Working Conditions

• Requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and boots.
• May involve standing for extended periods, repetitive pipetting, and handling temperature-controlled equipment (e.g., freezers, incubators).
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs (e.g., lab supplies, equipment).
• Work hours may vary depending on experimental schedules; some flexibility may be required.
• Adherence to all company safety protocols, biosafety regulations, and laboratory best practices is mandatory.
• Health and dental benefits
• Opportunities for professional development
• Access to advanced laboratory equipment and training

The Opportunity

The role description is just one part of the story. This is an opportunity to grow, to stretch, to work within the parameters of the role but stretch to your fullest potential. We are a team that counts performance, we reward contribution, and we recognize talent. It is about being at the center of the fastest-growing company in Atlantic Canada and knowing you are part of that growth. The ability to bring your passion for learning, desire for growth, and energy for moving your career forward is what we offer.

The Why

Why Cooke? Simple - because we are a company that rewards initiative, resourcefulness, and work ethics. We will champion your growth and provide you with the platform to create your path, your career, and your future.