Lab Technician

Smith College; Northampton (MA); On-site; USD 28,530 - 34,867; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

Smith College is seeking a Part-Time Laboratory Technician to support the molecular neuroscience research laboratory. This role involves executing molecular biology workflows and ensuring the organization of lab resources.

The technician will be responsible for maintaining lab continuity, training compliance, and readiness for experiments. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and proficiency in molecular cloning techniques. The position offers competitive pay with a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in relevant scientific field.
• 0-1 year of research experience preferred.
• Strong proficiency in cloning and molecular biology techniques.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular cloning procedures including digests and transformations.
• Grow bacterial cultures and prepare plasmid stocks with quality control.
• Manage reagents and lab inventory databases efficiently.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of lab supplies and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and maintain lab records.

Skills

Molecular cloning techniques

Proficiency in molecular biology

Laboratory organization

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Neuroscience, Chemistry, or Molecular Biology

Job description

Job Summary

The Part‑Time Laboratory Technician supports the daily operation of a molecular neuroscience research laboratory. Success in this role is defined by reliable execution of molecular biology workflows, careful organization of reagents and plasmid stocks, and stewardship of shared lab resources. This position contributes to the Smith College research mission by enabling safe, reproducible, and efficient scientific work while fostering a respectful and collaborative laboratory environment. The technician plays a critical role in maintaining lab continuity, training compliance, and experimental readiness, allowing students and researchers to focus on discovery and learning.

Essential Functions

• Perform molecular cloning procedures (digests, ligations, transformations, screening)
• Grow bacterial cultures and prepare plasmid stocks (mini/maxi preps, QC, storage)
• Manage reagents, consumables, and plasmid inventory databases
• Maintain dishware and lab supplies (cleaning, autoclaving, organization)
• Oversee proper use and care of shared laboratory equipment
• Maintain lab records, SOP compliance, and safety standards

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Neuroscience, Chemistry, or Molecular Biology
• 0–1 year(s) experience in research
• Proficiency in cloning and molecular biology techniques

Compensation

Competitive benefits package. Pay for this role is typically between $20.71 – $25.31 hourly, covering the middle half of market compensation. Actual compensation will vary based on individual qualifications.

Position Type

Fixed Term

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Massachusetts General Law, Smith College is committed to providing reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. Smith College seeks to attract individuals who are committed to our mission of providing the highest quality education to women. Smith College is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination. Smith College will not discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or any other classification protected by law.