Laboratory Technician (Part-Time, Seasonal)

Trace Genomics; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Miraterra is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join the Soil Analysis Production team in Ames, Iowa. You will perform high-throughput soil processing, sub-sampling, and manage inventory while keeping the workspace organized and equipment clean.

Strong attention to detail and ability to follow strict procedures are essential in this role. The position is part-time and seasonal, with the pace and deadlines requiring reliable, punctual team members who can lift up to 50 lbs and stand for long

Qualifications

• Proficiency in pipetting and handling soil and lab samples.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Detail-oriented, punctual and reliable.
• Able to multi-task in a fast-paced lab environment.
• Willing to work on-site in Ames, IA.

Responsibilities

• Perform high-throughput soil sample processing and preparation.
• Ensure sample integrity and proper labeling.
• Maintain clean equipment and workspace.
• Follow customer order requests and timelines.
• Assist with inventory management of samples and materials.

Skills

Pipetting

Attention to detail

Multi-tasking

Organization

Physical stamina

Ability to stand for long hours

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences or Chemistry

Tools

LIMS

Lab automation

Job description

At Miraterra, we’re on a mission to create a healthier, more efficient, and sustainable future. Our breakthrough digital measurement technology is transforming how we understand the world around us, unlocking critical insights across soil, plants, feed, food, and more.

By combining our breakthroughs in Raman spectroscopy, machine learning, chemometrics, and AI, we empower farmers, food producers, and industries to make smarter, more sustainable decisions. Our solutions drive both environmental and economic impact, improving efficiency, sustainability, and quality. Our recent acquisition of Trace Genomics’ assets, including its Iowa lab and DNA-based soil biology capabilities, accelerates our ability to deliver breakthrough soil-to-table measurement at scale.

YOUR ROLE AT MIRATERRA

As a Laboratory Technician on our Soil Analysis Production team, you’ll be at the heart of our high-throughput soil processing workflow. Your day-to-day will include preparing soil slurry, sub-sampling for our various measurements, and keeping tools and workspaces clean and organized. You’ll also help manage our inventory of samples and materials, ensuring everything runs smoothly to meet tight deadlines. Strong organization, communication skills, and comfort with basic lab techniques (ie. pipetting) will be key to your success.

In our collaborative environment, you’ll work alongside experts in agriculture, analytics, microbiome, and molecular biology, contributing ideas and learning from the best. This is your chance to grow your skills while helping build a more sustainable future in agriculture.

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

You will report directly to and work closely with the Lab Supervisor.

IN THIS ROLE, YOU WILL

• Perform high-throughput processing of soil samples (sample preparation)
• Comply with all Trace safety and company practices
• Process soil samples according to customer order requests and in a timely manner
• Ensure integrity of the samples
• Cleaning and maintaining equipment (pipettes, other tools, station)
• Comply with all Trace safety and company practices
• Other duties as needed

WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Proficiency in pipetting
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Responsible (punctual, reliable)
• Attention to detail
• Comfortable multi-tasking
• Ability to maintain an organized/clean working space
• Ability to stand for long hours (max 10 hours/day)
• Comfortable working in a noisy environment

WE VALUE, BUT DON’T REQUIRE

• Experience with lab automation and LIMS
• Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences or Chemistry

LOCATION

• On-site at our lab in Ames, Iowa

JOB TYPE

• Part-time, Seasonal (Fixed-Term)

WHAT WE OFFER

• Inclusive culture: At Miraterra, we believe diverse perspectives drive breakthrough innovation. We are committed to building a safe, inclusive workplace where individuals of all backgrounds and walks of life can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from marginalized and underrepresented groups, recognizing that varied experiences enrich our team and fuel our mission.
• Impactful work: Contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future. Our solutions empower smarter decisions across soil, plants, food, and beyond, amplifying environmental impact, improving food security, and lowering costs across the value chain.
• While we thank all applicants for their interest, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.