Plant Disease Diagnostics Technician – Lab Support

University-of-Hawaii-System; Kapaa (HI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Hawai'i at Manoa - College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR), Agricultural Diagnostic Service Center (ADSC) seeks a Research Support Staff to assist in laboratory analyses, plant diagnostics, and pest management research. The role supports senior staff and operates within ADSC’s diagnostic workflow.

The position emphasizes routine assays, molecular techniques, and data logging, with a focus on environmentally friendly plant health solutions and timely sample

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in agriculture, plant pathology, entomology or related field.
• Knowledge of analysis of disease causal agents and pests.
• Understanding of pesticide usage principles and regulations.
• Ability to communicate effectively and prepare reports.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Proficient in computer usage and data handling.

Responsibilities

• Assists with laboratory analysis and tests on plant specimens.
• Assists higher level professionals in selecting diagnostic tests.
• Identifies disease causal agents using plant pathology techniques.
• Supports senior staff in recognizing symptoms and identification.
• Drafts pest and disease management reports for senior review.
• Maintains the ADSC computer database and reports.

Skills

Laboratory analysis

Pest/disease identification

Data entry

Report writing

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in agriculture, plant pathology, entomology or related field

Tools

Molecular assays

DNA/RNA sequencing preparation

Laboratory techniques

Job description

University of Hawai'i at Manoa - College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR), Agricultural Diagnostic Service Center (ADSC) seeks a Research Support Staff to assist in laboratory analyses, plant diagnostics, and pest management research. The role supports senior staff and operates within ADSC’s diagnostic workflow.

The position emphasizes routine assays, molecular techniques, and data logging, with a focus on environmentally friendly plant health solutions and timely sample