Spotted Lanternfly Field & Lab Technician

Clemson University; Clemson (SC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Clemson University is seeking a Spotted Lanternfly Field & Lab Technician to assist researchers with field work, basic chemical evaluations, seasonal observations, and routine molecular sample processing related to spotted lanternfly. The role requires attention to schedule and accuracy across multiple sites.

Responsibilities include field monitoring, sample collection, basic PCR setup, and data entry, with emphasis on safety, equipment prep, and laboratory support.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate degree may substitute for required experience.
• Experience in agricultural research or animal care related to the job duties preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with field monitoring and sample collection across multiple sites.
• Perform basic data entry and recordkeeping of field and lab data.
• Assist with laboratory sample processing, DNA extraction prep, and PCR setup.
• Support chemical evaluation and simple screening trials.
• Prepare equipment, maintain safety practices, and support routine lab tasks.

Skills

Fieldwork

Data entry

Lab safety

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree in animal health technology or agriculture

Job description

Spotted Lanternfly Field & Lab Technician

Full Time

Job Reference: JR-10844

Job Summary

Assist researchers with field work, basic chemical evaluations, seasonal observations, and routine molecular sample processing related to spotted lanternfly. Research must be completed consistently and on schedule across multiple sites. Other duties as assigned.

Job Duties

• 10% - Equipment Preparation & Support: Prepare supplies, maintain equipment, follow safety protocols, and assist with routine greenhouse or lab tasks.
• 10% - Data Entry & Recordkeeping: Enter field and lab data, maintain logs, organize photos, and assist with simple reporting.
• 20% - Laboratory Sample Processing: Basic molecular sample handling, labeling, DNA extraction prep, PCR setup assistance, and sample organization.
• 20% - Chemical Evaluation & Observations: Assist with lampshade trap evaluations and simple chemical screening trials.
• 40% - Field Monitoring and Sample Collection: Routine field surveys, trap checks, plant inspections, and SLF sample collection across multiple sites.

Job Code

LA15

Employee Type

Time-Limited (TLP) Staff

Minimum Requirements

A high school diploma and experience in agricultural research or animal care that is directly related to the area of employment. An associate degree in animal health technology or a discipline related to agriculture may be substituted for the required work experience.

Responsibilities

JOB KNOWLEDGE

Fundamental working knowledge of concepts, practices and procedures and ability to apply in varied situations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Not responsible for supervising employees.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES

No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

Physical Requirements

• Move, transport, raise or lower 50 lbs or more: 25%
• Recognize or inspect visually: 15%
• Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself: 30%
• Position self to accomplish task (i.e. stoop, kneel, crawl): 20%
• Walk or move about: 20%
• Stand for Prolonged Period: 20%

Working Conditions

• Chemical hazards: 20%
• Mechanical hazards: 20%
• Vibration: 20%
• Noise: 20%
• Exposure to dust/fumes: 20%
• Exposure to heat or cold: 20%

Work Schedule

Standard Hours: 37.5

Compensation Information

Expected Salary Range

50000 - 55000

Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's previous experience, knowledge, skills and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.

Essential Personnel Level

Normal Operations - Required to follow emergency facility closure and modified operations directives, and not normally expected to work on-site during emergency situations.

Job Location

Florence, SC

Application Deadline

October 9, 2026

Military Equivalency

Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.

Veteran Preference

South Carolina provides employment preference to eligible veterans for qualifying full-time permanent positions. To be considered, applicants must meet the minimum qualifications, have been discharged under honorable conditions, and indicate their veteran status in the application by uploading a DD-214 for confidential review. A request for Veteran Preference can be made via the application process. Please contact [e-mail] with any questions or issues.

Closing Statement

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.