Laboratory Technician

Lab Technician Job Description The Job Technician supports crop transformation and genome editing projects by executing laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to new technology development and process improvement. This role involves hands-on work in a plant science laboratory, close collaboration with supervisors and team members, and active participation in maintaining a safe, high-quality lab environment. Responsibilities + Follow the direction of supervisors to perform crop transformation and genome editing experiments according to established protocols. + Collect, organize, and document experimental data accurately and in a timely manner. + Participate in new technology development and process improvement studies in crop transformation, including planning experiments, testing hypotheses, making observations, and performing data analysis. + Adhere to all safety policies, protocols, and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for self and team members. + Support team activities such as explant preparation, equipment maintenance, media assessment and improvement, culture room maintenance, process optimization, and information management. + Provide technical support to colleagues and conduct experiments with a respectful, collaborative, and positive team spirit. + Prepare clear summaries and reports for supervisors that describe experimental methods, results, and conclusions. + Present experimental results internally and at external meetings when needed, using effective oral and written communication. + Maintain complete, accurate, and timely records of experimental procedures, observations, and data in lab notebooks and electronic systems. + Follow procedures and instructions carefully while also being able to carry out experiments independently when appropriate. + Contribute to the custodianship of laboratory equipment by using instruments properly, performing basic maintenance, and reporting issues promptly. + Support a high-quality laboratory environment through strict adherence to lab safety practices and good laboratory housekeeping. Essential Skills + Laboratory skills in plant science, biological science, genetics, or a related field such as horticulture or biotechnology. + Bachelor's or Associate degree in plant science, biological science, genetics, or a related discipline such as horticulture or biotechnology. + Knowledge and experience in general laboratory operations, including handling equipment, reagents, and samples. + Ability to follow procedures and instructions accurately and consistently. + Ability to carry out experiments independently while maintaining alignment with established protocols. + Strong sampling skills and attention to detail in experimental setup and execution. + Ability to maintain complete, accurate, and timely records of experimental data and procedures. + Proficiency with Microsoft Office software for data entry, analysis, and reporting. + Excellent oral and written communication skills for documenting work and presenting results. + Demonstrated ability to function both independently and as a respectful, collaborative team member. + Commitment to strict adherence to laboratory safety practices and protocols. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Plant tissue culture and transformation experience is preferred but not required. + Prior laboratory experience, particularly in plant science, biology, chemistry, or microbiology, is strongly preferred. + Experience in microbiology or related laboratory techniques is beneficial. + Familiarity with databases and/or Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) is a plus. + Experience with detailed record keeping and documentation in a scientific or technical environment. + Ability to support a high-quality laboratory environment through custodianship of equipment and proactive maintenance. + Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple experiments or tasks simultaneously. + Collaborative mindset with a positive, respectful approach to working with diverse team members. Work Environment This role is based in a laboratory environment focused on crop transformation and genome editing within plant science and related disciplines. The Job Technician works with standard laboratory equipment, culture rooms, and media preparation areas, and uses tools such as Microsoft Office and, where applicable, databases or Laboratory Information Management Systems to manage data and information. The position involves following strict safety protocols, maintaining clean and orderly workspaces, and caring for laboratory instruments and facilities. Work is highly collaborative, with frequent interaction with supervisors and team members, while also requiring periods of independent experimental work and data analysis in a structured, process-driven setting. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $32.00 - $32.00/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 Aug 27, 2026. 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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. 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 View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.