Research Technician

Houston Methodist; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Methodist is seeking a Research Technician I who will assist scientists with laboratory and investigative procedures. The candidate will perform various assays and imaging experiments while supporting essential research activities under supervision.

Qualifications include a High School diploma and skills in effective communication, problem-solving, and time management. This role contributes significantly to research efforts that may involve human subjects and animal models.

Qualifications

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job.
• Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English necessary for essential functions.

Responsibilities

• Assisting scientists with laboratory and investigative procedures.
• Performing assays, imaging experiments, and other technical duties.

Skills

Effective communication

Time-management

Problem-solving

Microsoft Office proficiency

Ability to use independent judgment

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

At Houston Methodist, the Research Technician I position is responsible for assisting scientists with laboratory and investigative procedures under supervision. The position performs various assays, imaging experiments, and other technical duties to support research activities. It may involve working with animal models and/or human subjects and performing scientific analyses and tests required for research under direct supervision.

FLSA STATUS

Non-exempt

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• High School diploma or equivalent education (examples include: GED, verification of homeschool equivalency, partial or full completion of post‑secondary education, etc.)

Experience

• None

Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on‑going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English necessary for essential functions, particularly those impacting patient or employee safety or security
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, family members and co‑workers in a customer‑service focused manner and application of positive language principles
• Ability to communicate effectively and utilize problem‑solving and decision‑making skills to accelerate escalation
• Effective time‑management skills
• Experience with computer spreadsheets or databases
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Ability to use independent judgment

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

People Essential Functions

• Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance to achieve optimal department results
• Collaborates with all members of the laboratory team by actively communicating, providing meaningful contributions, and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner
• Uses peer‑to‑peer accountability toward improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement

Service Essential Functions

• Performs bench chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or other scientific techniques according to protocol
• Accurately conducts microscope work and basic image analysis

Quality/Safety Essential Functions

• Conducts the safe collection and handling of human/animal tissue, blood or other biological specimens, which includes animal handling and may include basic animal husbandry
• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement, providing recommendations and contributing to meeting departmental and hospital targets for quality and safety

Finance Essential Functions

• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self‑motivated to independently manage time effectively, reducing incidental overtime, and prioritizes daily tasks
• Collaborates with management to order appropriate laboratory supplies and equipment within the department

Growth/Innovation Essential Functions

• Participates in department initiatives, projects and shared governance activities
• Trains in new techniques and procedures as they emerge, as appropriate
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development; completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an on‑going basis

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Work Attire

• Uniform: No
• Scrubs: Yes
• Business professional: Yes
• Other (department approved): No

On‑Call

*Note that employees may be required to be on‑call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.

• On Call* No

Travel

**Travel specifications may vary by department**

• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area No
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No