Laboratory Technician

PayCruit; Johnston (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

PayCruit is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support Crop Genome Engineering experiments tied to Trait Optimization and Product development in client programs.

Ideal candidates have a relevant science degree, lab experience, and strong documentation skills. The role emphasizes safe lab practices, independent work, and teamwork within Biotechnology/Trait Discovery teams at PayCruit.

Qualifications

• Must have Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in plant/biological sciences or related field.
• Lab experience preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of general lab operations.
• Experience with careful record keeping and following procedures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; databases/LIMS experience a plus.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Commitment to lab safety and equipment custodianship.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member.

Responsibilities

• Carry out Crop Genome Engineering experiments to support Trait Optimization and Product development in client.
• Follow established protocols for transformation/genome editing and document data accurately.
• Take directions from supervisors and other team members during experiments.
• Contribute to continuous improvements of methods to increase system metrics.
• Provide technical support and collaborate in a respectful, positive team environment.
• Prepare summaries/reports and present results within the company or external meetings.
• Assist with explant preparation, equipment maintenance, media assessment/optimization, culture room upkeep, and information management.

Skills

Lab experience

Microsoft Office

Databases/LIMS

Oral and written communication

Record keeping

Team collaboration

Independent work

Lab safety practices

Equipment custodianship

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in plant/biological sciences or related field

Job description

Duration: 03 months assignment with possible extensions

Job Description:

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Associate’s degree program in plant science, biological science, genetics, or related field such as horticulture or biotechnology, and preference goes to candidates with lab experience.
• Plant tissue culture and transformation experience would be preferred but not required.
• Knowledge and experience in general lab operation is necessary for the job.
• Helpful experience includes, following procedures or instructions, carrying out experiments independently, sampling, and detailed record keeping.
• Ability to maintain complete, accurate and timely records of experimental data and procedures.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office software, and experience in databases and/or Lab Information Management systems is a plus.
• This job also requires excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Willingness to support a high-quality laboratory environment through custodianship of equipment and strict adherence to lab safety practices.
• Ability to function both independently and as a respectful team member.

Responsibilities:

The Laboratory Technician (LT) is a key member of the Crop Transformation Systems within Biotechnology/Trait Discovery & Optimization. The primary responsibility of the LT is to carry out Crop Genome Engineering experiments to support Trait Optimization and Product development in client.

The LT may take directions from a Technology Leader, Research Scientist, Senior Research Associate, or other team members. The LT will conduct transformation/genome editing experiments according to established protocols, document experimental data accurately into database system(s). In addition, he/she will participate in continuous improvements of established methods to increase the overall metrics of the system.

• Follow the direction of supervisor(s) and carry out crop transformation or genome editing experiments and collect data from experiments.
• Participate in new technology development or process improvement studies in crop transformation – activities include experimental plan, testing of hypothesis, making observation, data collection and analysis.
• Follow company safety policies, protocols, and procedures, and ensure a safe working environment for self and team members.
• Participate in team supporting activities such as explant preparation, equipment maintenance, media assessment or improvement, culture room maintenance, process improvement, or information management.
• Provide technical support and conduct experiments with a respectful, collaborative, and positive team spirit.
• Provide summaries and reports to supervisors, and present results within the company or outside meetings when necessary.