LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 52,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The Laboratory Technician I role at the Arkansas Department of Agriculture provides an entry-level opportunity to support routine laboratory operations in a government environment. Under close supervision, you will learn SOPs, support experienced staff, and contribute to specimen handling, preparation, and data recording.

The position emphasizes accuracy, safety, and teamwork while developing foundational laboratory skills in a regulated setting within Arkansas state government.

Qualifications

• At least six months of experience in laboratory science or a related field.
• Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions and SOPs.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate records and organize tasks.

Responsibilities

• Receive, label, and log laboratory specimens and samples per internal protocols.
• Prepare basic solutions, media, or buffers under supervision.
• Assist with organization of laboratory materials and supplies.
• Perform basic tasks such as pipetting, weighing, or centrifuging under instruction.
• Operate basic laboratory equipment after training.
• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of equipment and workspace.
• Record sample details and inventory logs accurately in data systems or paper records.
• Adhere to laboratory safety guidelines including PPE use and hazardous materials handling.
• Follow agency policies on contamination control, waste disposal, and equipment sanitation.

Skills

Basic laboratory practices

Recordkeeping

Time management

Attention to detail

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in plant sciences, Agronomy, Biology, or related field

Job description

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Position Number: 22087883
County: Pulaski
Anticipated Starting Salary: 52,137
Agriculture

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

The Laboratory Technician I is an entry-level position responsible for performing basic laboratory support duties including specimen handling, sample preparation, equipment cleaning, and assistance with routine lab processes. This role is ideal for individuals beginning a career in laboratory science within a government environment. Under close supervision, the technician learns to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) while supporting experienced lab staff in daily operations.

Primary Responsibilities

Receive, label, and log laboratory specimens and samples in accordance with internal protocols.Prepare basic solutions, media, or buffers under supervision.Assist with the organization of laboratory materials and supplies.Perform basic tasks such as pipetting, weighing, or centrifuging samples following detailed instructions.Operate basic laboratory equipment (e.g., centrifuge, incubator, balance) after training.Maintain cleanliness and readiness of laboratory equipment and workspace.Accurately record sample details, test information, and inventory logs using lab data systems or paper records.File, archive, and label materials in compliance with laboratory regulations and retention policies.Adhere to laboratory safety guidelines including proper PPE usage and safe handling of hazardous materials.Follow all agency policies related to contamination control, waste disposal, and equipment sanitation.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of basic laboratory practices and procedures, general scientific principles, safety protocols, and recordkeeping methods.Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions, perform repetitive tasks with accuracy and minimal supervision, and handle laboratory samples safely.Ability to maintain accurate and complete records, prioritize tasks, and communicate effectively.Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.

Minimum Qualifications

At least six months of experience in laboratory science, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in plant sciences, Agronomy, Biology, or a related field.
• Prior experience in seed production, seed testing, or agricultural laboratory operations.
• Demonstrated familiarity with laboratory equipment and adherence to established standard operating procedures (SOP).
• Ability to comply with all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and fit‑testing standards.
• Capacity to be trained in the safe handling of potentially infectious or hazardous materials, including animal tissues, bodily fluids, microbiological cultures, and agricultural samples containing pesticides.
• Ability to perform precise, repetitive tasks in high‑throughput laboratory environments (such as seed sorting, weighing, or pipetting).
• Strong attention to detail and proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
• Readiness to perform additional responsibilities as assigned, including, but not limited to, receiving training to support operations in other laboratories.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/AOTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.