Diagnostic Technician I or II - Molecular Service

Kansas State University; Manhattan (KS); On-site; USD 23,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas State University’s KSVDL is seeking a Diagnostic Technician I or II to perform PCR-based pathogen detection in clinical samples, assist in nucleic acid extraction, and support real-time and traditional PCR workflows. This on-site role involves preparing chemicals, maintaining records and equipment, and training student staff.

The role requires a high school diploma with 2–4 years of relevant experience; preferred candidates have experience with nucleic acid extraction and PCR and can

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with 2–4 years of relevant experience.
• Experience with nucleic acid extraction and PCR preferred.
• Ability to follow SOPs and maintain accurate records.

Responsibilities

• Assist in completing polymerase chain reactions (PCR) for detection of infectious agents.
• Prepare chemicals and reagents for a molecular biology lab.
• Extract nucleic acids from veterinary clinical samples and perform PCR assays.
• Maintain records and equipment; review SOPs; train student employees and interns.

Skills

Nucleic acid extraction

PCR

Education

Associate or BS in biology or related science

Job description

Diagnostic Technician I or II - Molecular Service

Kansas State University

About This Role

This position will assist in completing polymerase chain reactions (PCR) for detection of infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria in clinical samples submitted to the KSVDL. This position will involve assisting in the preparation of chemicals and reagents in a molecular biology laboratory, extracting nucleic acids from veterinary clinical samples, completing real-time and traditional PCR assays using standard protocols, being able to successfully complete proficiency testing, and assist in maintaining records and equipment. In addition, this position is also responsible in assisting with SOP review and preparation, training new student employees, and engaging rotating interns as needed. This is an essential position and may require variable work schedules, depending on workload.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications

• Diagnostic Technician I: Requires a high school diploma (or Equivalent) And Two Years Of Relevant Experience. Requirements May be met through a combination of education and experience.
• Diagnostic Technician II: Requires a high school diploma (or Equivalent) And Four Years Of Relevant Experience. Requirements May be met through a combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with nucleic acid extraction and PCR
• Associate or BS degree, or higher, in biology or related science field

Sponsorship Eligibility

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Application Window

Applications close on: September 27, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$16.76-$27.93 hourly