Lab Technician

Colorado State University; United States; On-site; USD 46,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University seeks a lab position focused on soil, water, and plant sample analyses. The role involves receiving and sorting samples, preparing them for testing, performing analyses, and communicating results to clients.

Strong communication and multitasking are essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office and a willingness to meet physical demands. The position is located within CSU’s soil analysis lab, offering hands-on experience with standard instruments and procedures,

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in soil science or closely related field.
• Proven written and oral communication skills.
• Experience analyzing soil, water, or plant samples.
• Computer proficiency (Microsoft Office).
• Ability to complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to meet physical demands including frequent heavy lifting up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Receiving, booking-in, and sorting samples; coordinate testing with lab staff (20%).
• Prepare samples (grinding, drying, weighing) for analyses (20%).
• Perform analysis, data collection and recording (40%).
• Provide customer service and respond to client inquiries about lab services (20%).

Skills

Written & oral communication

Customer service

Microsoft Office

Timely task completion

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in soil science

MS in soil science (preferred)

Tools

Soil grinders

Balances

Ovens

Sieves

Shakers

pH probes

EC probes

ICP

IC

Elementar Analyzers

Titrator

Pipettes

Job description

Job Description Position Minimum Qualifications

• A B.S. Degree in the field of soil science, or closely related field
• Demonstrated strong written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrate experience in analyses for soil, water, and/or plant samples
• Demonstrated computer skills and standard computer software (Microsoft Office)
• Ability to complete tasks in a timely manner with or without direct supervision.
• Demonstrated customer service skills and excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of this position, which include: some heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.) on a frequent basis and will require manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and handling.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. Degree(s) must be in the field of soil science, or closely related field, with an emphasis in soil fertility, chemistry and/or soil health
• Demonstrate strong understanding of water and soil analyses principles, methodologies, and procedures
• Experience processing soil, water, plant, and manure/compost samples
• Experience using equipment and instruments such as soil and plant grinders, balances, ovens, sieves, shakers, pH and EC probes, ICP, IC, Elementar Analyzers, Titrator, and multi-channel pipettes
• Experience in designing and conducting research experiments, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data
• Experience with recommending management decisions based on testing results
• Demonstrated customer service skills and excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated personal or professional commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Essential Job Duties

• Samples Receiving – Aid in receiving, book-inning and sorting samples based on analyses requested and coordinating testing activities with other lab personnel (20%)
• Sample Preparation – Aid in the preparation (grinding, drying, weight) of soil, plant, and manure/compost for analytical testing (20%)
• Samples Analysis – Perform sample analysis activities, data collection, and recording (40%)
• Customer Service – Communicate with clientele about their needs, aid with inquiries about lab services (20%)

$22-$25

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.