Laboratory Technician I, Molecular

Murray-State-University; Murray (KY); On-site; USD 36,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Murray State University is seeking a Laboratory Technician I, Molecular to collect samples, perform virology, serology, and molecular biology testing, and document findings in the lab information system. Based at Hopkinsville, KY, this regular full-time position supports the Breathitt Veterinary Center and requires strong attention to safety and quality.

You will operate sensitive equipment, maintain confidentiality, and participate in university and lab committees.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• Ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and to coworker personalities
• Alertness, memory for verbal and written directions and details, analytical ability, and ability to logically plan and organize analytical processes
• Ability to interpret and verify test results
• Ability to plan and make decisions often without instruction or supervision
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Pleasant, proactive personality, ability to handle demanding situations, and work with a team
• Laboratory techniques, record keeping, and filing procedures; biology and chemistry helpful.

Responsibilities

• Collects and organizes samples for Virology, Serology, and Molecular Biology testing
• Utilizes validated laboratory techniques and processes to analyze patient specimens leading to diagnosis
• Operates sensitive scientific equipment during the analytical process
• Documents findings in laboratory information management system
• Recognizes, documents, and provides input to correct substandard quality
• Develops, reviews, and evaluates processes as necessary
• Maintain customer confidentiality
• Clean and sterilize lab section, lab instruments and glassware
• Order, receive, process and store lab section supplies and equipment
• Strict adherence to the Quality Management System
• Participates in university and laboratory committees; additional projects as needed
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Communication skills

Record keeping

Education

Bachelor's degree

BS in Biology (preferred)

Job description

Posting Number:

20270039NE

Job Title:

Laboratory Technician I, Molecular

Number of Vacancies:

1

About Murray State:

Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.

About Murray State Benefits:

Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Type of Employment:

Regular Full-Time

Work Location:

Hopkinsville, KY

Employment Term:

12 Months

Position Type:

Staff - Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Department:

Breathitt Veterinary Center

Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Collects and organizes samples for testing, performs laboratory procedures, document and communicate findings.

• Collects and organizes samples for Virology, Serology, and Molecular Biology testing
• Utilizes validated laboratory techniques and processes to analyze patient specimens leading to diagnosis
• Operates sensitive scientific equipment during the analytical process
• Documents findings in laboratory information management system
• Recognizes, documents, and provides input to correct substandard quality
• Develops, reviews, and evaluates processes as necessary
• Maintain customer confidentiality
• Clean and sterilize lab section, lab instruments and glassware
• Order, receive, process and store lab section supplies and equipment
• Strict adherence to the Quality Management System
• Participates in university and laboratory committees; additional projects as needed
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree required.

Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements:

• Ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and to coworker personalities
• Alertness, memory for verbal and written directions and details, analytical ability, and ability to logically plan and organize analytical processes
• Ability to interpret and verify test results
• Ability to plan and make decisions often without instruction or supervision
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Pleasant, proactive personality, ability to handle demanding situations, and work with a team
• Laboratory techniques, record keeping, and filing procedures; biology and chemistry helpful.

Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications:

• One year working experience in an animal diagnostic laboratory
• Experience using a laboratory information database
• BS in Biology with courses in Microbiology and Molecular Biology preferred

Posting Date:

10/12/2026

Closing Date:

10/26/2026

Open Until Filled:

No

Hourly Rate/Annual Salary:

$17.59 (Additional pay dependent upon qualifications)

Staff Grade:

106

Work Hours:

• Normal working hours.

Physical Demands:

• Handling of hazardous materials