Research Lab Technician

Agricultural Ingredients N. America; Livingston (CA); On-site; USD 29,617 - 42,182; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Benefits package

Hands-on experience

Career growth

Collaborative team

Job summary

Sensient Technologies is seeking a Research Lab Technician in California to support research, seed production, and laboratory operations. The role involves field trials, greenhouse work, and meticulous data collection across nursery, greenhouse, and lab settings.

You will assist with seed preparation, planting, harvesting, and sample processing, while mentoring temporary team members and upholding safety standards throughout the growing season.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; agricultural, laboratory, or field research experience preferred.
• Interest in agriculture, plant breeding, or crop research with ability to learn methods.
• Attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping; basic mathematics.

Responsibilities

• Support research nursery operations: plant, maintain, harvest, and organize seeds.
• Assist field trials: prepare seeds, plant plots, harvest, and record measurements.
• Process plant samples for lab testing following procedures and keep records.
• Perform seed quality testing and seed cleaning.
• Train and supervise temporary team members; promote safe work practices.
• Assist greenhouse, laboratory, and other research projects as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Data recording

Team supervision

Communication

Field & lab work

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma

Agricultural/lab/field experience preferred

Tools

Farm equipment operation

Job description

Come join the skilled team at Sensient Technologies. We are collaborative and hard working. We solve tough problems. And we will be better with you.

If you enjoy hands‑on agricultural research, working both outdoors and in the laboratory, and contributing to the development of new crop varieties, this is an opportunity to grow your career. As a Research Lab Technician, you will support research, seed production, and laboratory operations while helping ensure accurate data collection and successful field trials. This is an onsite position based in Turlock, California, with work performed in research fields, greenhouses, and laboratory environments throughout the growing season.

What you'll do:

• Support research nursery operations by planting, maintaining, harvesting, and organizing research seed and equipment.
• Assist with field research trials by preparing seed, planting and harvesting plots, collecting measurements, and accurately recording research data.
• Process plant samples for laboratory testing by following established procedures and maintaining detailed records.
• Perform seed quality testing, seed cleaning, and other activities that support seed production and research programs.
• Train and supervise temporary team members while promoting safe work practices and maintaining an organized work environment.
• Assist with greenhouse, laboratory, and other research projects as assigned.

What you'll bring:

• High school diploma or equivalent, with agricultural, laboratory, or field research experience preferred.
• Interest in agriculture, plant breeding, or crop research, with the ability to learn research methods and basic genetics.
• Strong attention to detail, accurate recordkeeping, and basic mathematics skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and provide guidance to temporary team members.
• Valid California driver's license and the ability to safely operate farm equipment and powered material handling equipment.
• Ability to lift up to fifty pounds, work outdoors in varying weather conditions, and safely handle agricultural products while following established safety procedures.

What you'll get:

• Competitive hourly pay and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Hands‑on experience supporting innovative agricultural research and seed development.
• Opportunities to expand your skills through field, laboratory, and greenhouse work.
• A collaborative team environment where your contributions help advance crop improvement.
• The chance to build a rewarding career with Sensient Technologies, a global leader in specialty ingredients for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries.

About Sensient:

Sensient Technologies Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company's customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world's best-known brands.

About Sensient Agricultural Ingredients:

Sensient Agricultural Ingredients is one of the largest producers and distributors in the world of dehydrated onion and garlic products as well as chili powder, paprika, chili pepper and dehydrated vegetables such as parsley, celery, and spinach. These ingredients are used in many of today's popular convenience foods. The Agricultural Ingredients unit is located in Turlock, California.

The hourly wage for this position is $26.06. Pay is based on several factors, which may include, but are not limited to, education, work experience, specialized training, and labor market conditions. In addition to salary, Sensient is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits program to support the holistic well‑being of our employees and their families.

Sensient is an Equal Opportunity Employer, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin