Job Title: Lab Technician

Job Description

We are seeking a Lab Technician with an understanding and experience in utilizing sterile techniques, preparing buffers, dilutions, and culturing. The successful candidate will assist in the preparation of plant pathogen inoculum using various techniques including liquid medium culture, agar medium culture, and isolation of host plant material.

ResponsibilitiesPrepare media and transfer plant pathogens for large scale production on sterile seed media.Grow and blend cultures, prepare seed media, sterilize seed media, and package and ship finished inoculum to research locations.Maintain cultures of plant pathogens on agar slants, silica gel, freeze-drying, and glycerol, performing periodic transfers and virulence checks.Compile and enter shipping and inoculum production records using a computer.Perform routine laboratory cleaning and sanitizing, including glassware washing and cleaning various labs.Assist lab personnel in controlled environments (greenhouse and/or growth chambers) with assays establishing race characterization and virulence of pathogens on host differential plants.Ensure compliance with company policies and written protocols are performed in a safe and ethical manner.

Additional Skills & QualificationsAssociates or Bachelor's degree within the life sciences, preferably in Plant Pathology, Biology, or Microbiology.Experience in sterile techniques, preparing buffers, dilutions, and culturing.Willingness to cross-train in diagnostics lab.Work Environment

The position is within a group focused on plant pathogen inoculum production and disease research, producing large-scale inoculum products for disease trait characterization. The lab handles different bacteria and fungi to study their effects on disease-resistant traits in crops. The lab environment is busy with opportunities for cross-training within other pathology team groups. Candidates must be comfortable working with bacteria, molds, and fungi, lifting up to 40 pounds, and performing both lab and production/cleaning duties. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Proper attire includes long pants and closed-toed shoes.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Johnston,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 24, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

Hiring diverse talent Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.