Laboratory Technician

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VT); Blacksburg, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support research on the chemical and physical properties of soil and stormwater runoff. You will assist in daily lab operations, prepare samples, perform analyses, and maintain equipment, while ensuring EHS compliance and mentoring students.

The role may involve field sampling and requires strong organization, communication, and data management skills. Some lifting and outdoor work should be anticipated.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a science field or equivalent lab experience.
• Experience working in a scientific research laboratory is required.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory safety and hazardous waste disposal procedures.
• Strong organization and detail orientation with good time management.
• Proficiency in MS Office for data entry and record keeping.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist lab manager with day-to-day lab operations and maintenance.
• Prepare samples and conduct routine and specialized analyses.
• Maintain and calibrate scientific equipment and ensure EHS compliance.
• Train or guide undergraduate and graduate student researchers on basic lab protocols.
• Occasional field sampling at research sites may be required.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Safety protocols

Time management

Communication skills

Data entry

Education

Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, or closely related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Excel

Job description

Job Description

The School of Plant and Environmental Sciences (SPES) is seeking a highly organized and motivated Laboratory Technician to support ongoing research projects in the chemical and physical properties of soil and stormwater runoff.

The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting the lab manager in the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the laboratory. Primary duties include preparing samples, conducting routine and specialized laboratory analyses, maintaining and calibrating scientific equipment, and ensuring compliance with university environmental health and safety (EHS) regulations. The Technician will also assist in providing training or guidance to undergraduate and graduate student researchers on basic lab protocols. Occasional field work such as collecting soil/plant samples at research farms or field sites may be required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience.
• Demonstrated experience working in a scientific research laboratory.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory safety protocols and hazardous waste disposal procedures.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with a high attention to detail.
• Proficiency in standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Excel) for data entry and basic record keeping.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with specific analytical techniques such as soil extractions for nutrient analysis and instrument upkeep and maintenance.
• Prior experience conducting field research or agricultural sampling.

Pay Band

2

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$20.00 - $25.00; commensurate with experience

Hours per week

Varies

Review Date

September 29, 2026

Additional Information

Virginia Tech is unable to sponsor work visas for this position.

Moderate to heavy lifting (25 pounds plus).

Safe driving record.

Ability to work in outside elements (i.e. weather.)

Considerable walking, standing, bending, stooping.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Dedicated to its motto,Ut Prosim(That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is aninclusive communitydedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eightundergraduate colleges,a school of medicine,a veterinary medicinecollege,Graduate School, andHonors College.The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerousExtension officesandresearch institutes.A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Athena Tilleyat [e-mail] regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.