Lab Technician

Auburn University; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Auburn University Plant Diagnostic Laboratory, part of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, seeks applicants for a limited-term, full-time Lab Technician to provide technical support for plant disease diagnostics and to perform DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, and other assays.

This position emphasizes teamwork, data management, and maintaining lab equipment, with responsibilities including sample preparation, data entry, and assisting with nematode processing.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1 year of experience in performing tests and/or research in a lab setting.
• 4 years of experience in performing tests and/or research in a lab setting.

Responsibilities

• Nucleic acid extractions – DNA and RNA.
• Perform routine and specialized diagnostic lab tests on plant samples, follow generally accepted lab procedures and specialized federal protocols when appropriate. Includes: culturing on artificial media, microscopic evaluation on limited samples, NA extraction, PCR – conventional and qPCR, serological, and isothermal analysis.
• Respond to questions regarding sample collection and submission.
• Maintain equipment in good working order to provide good overall organization and appearance of the lab.
• Plant sample initial data entry and data management – hard copy log and LIMS. Overall data management and retrieval as needed.
• Assist with other lab activities including nematode sample processing.
• Prepare media and reagents required for routine and specialized diagnostic assays; sterilize equipment and supplies for molecular assays, sterilize samples and cultures for disposal; and assist in maintaining the lab’s chemical inventory.
• Work in a team setting that establishes and maintains respectful, cooperative, and productive working relationships.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Overview

The Auburn University Plant Diagnostic Laboratory with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System is seeking applicants for a limited-term, full-time Lab Technician position.

The primary duties of this position are to provide technical support for plant disease diagnostics at the Plant Diagnostic Lab. The successful applicant will be expected to perform biological, chemical, serological, and molecular tests on plant, insect, and soil samples. They will also be responsible for preparing chemical reagents and biological media, compiling laboratory records, and maintaining laboratory equipment. The lab technician will have high levels of interaction with Plant Diagnostic Lab clientele and AU faculty members.

This is a full-time, limited-term appointment. Continuation of employment is contingent upon the availability of funds.

EXTENSION: The Alabama Cooperative Extension System is the outreach organization for the land grant mission of Alabama A&M University and Auburn University. Its educational programs grow from these two land grant university campuses to serve the people of Alabama. Science-based educational programs are delivered that enable people to improve their quality of life and economic well-being. Information and programs are available online or in person through all 67 County Extension Offices and at teaching sites throughout Alabama communities.

For more information, please see https://www.aces.edu/.

Responsibilities

• Nucleic acid extractions – DNA and RNA.
• Perform routine and specialized diagnostic lab tests on plant samples, follow generally accepted lab procedures and specialized federal protocols when appropriate. Includes: culturing on artificial media, microscopic evaluation on limited samples, NA extraction, PCR – conventional and qPCR, serological, and isothermal analysis.
• Respond to questions regarding sample collection and submission.
• Maintain equipment in good working order to provide good overall organization and appearance of the lab.
• Plant sample initial data entry and data management – hard copy log and LIMS. Overall data management and retrieval as needed.
• Assist with other lab activities including nematode sample processing.
• Prepare media and reagents required for routine and specialized diagnostic assays; sterilize equipment and supplies for molecular assays, sterilize samples and cultures for disposal; and assist in maintaining the lab’s chemical inventory.
• Work in a team setting that establishes and maintains respectful, cooperative, and productive working relationships.

Qualifications

Level I:

• High school diploma or equivalent

Level II:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1 year of experience in performing tests and/or research in a lab setting

Level III:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 4 years of experience in performing tests and/or research in a lab setting

Substitution allowed for Experience:

When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Contract Type

Limited Term

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
• Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.

Posted Date

10/15/2026