Laboratory Technician

Melissa Owens | President


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Job Description

Job Title: Long Term/Permanent Laboratory Technician

Location: Madison, WI

Shift: Full-time (30-40 hours/week), not to exceed 1,800 hours per year. No travel required.

Job Summary: The Laboratory Technician will support research at the Forest Products Laboratory (FPL) to advance the development and application of protein-based adhesives for wood products. The role requires performing laboratory experiments, data analysis, and reporting to ensure reliable research outcomes in cooperation with federal scientists and industry partners.

Job Responsibilities Include:

• Conduct laboratory experiments including: Protein modification and analysis (autoclaving, extractions, drying, pH, rheology). Adhesive formulation, characterization, and testing. Preparation, bonding, and mechanical testing of wood samples.
• Record and maintain all experimental data in laboratory notebooks and spreadsheets with accuracy and clarity.
• Analyze and graph data using Excel or equivalent software; perform basic statistics (t-tests, standard deviations)
• Prepare and submit bi-weekly reports on experimental results and weekly timesheets.
• Maintain laboratory safety standards and ensure proper labeling, storage, and documentation of materials.
• Keep laboratory space organized and report equipment or material issues to supervisors.
• Participate in laboratory safety inspections (minimum 5 times annually).
• Communicate effectively with FPL Principal Investigator (PI) and staff, providing timely updates.
• Follow all FPL security, confidentiality, and government property protocols.
• Must comply with Forest Service laboratory safety procedures and federal workplace standards.
• Technicians may continue work during federal government shutdowns if funding is in place.

Requirements:

Skills - F amiliarity with laboratory instrumentation and safety practices. Strong data management and analysis skills in Microsoft Excel (graphing, statistics). Proficiency in English (written and verbal).

Education - Bachelor of Science in Physical or Biological Sciences (or demonstrated equivalent laboratory technician experience).

Other Requirements:

• Must pass government background checks and obtain agricultural facility access credentials.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after initial training.
• Commitment to confidentiality agreements and data integrity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with protein-based materials, adhesives, or wood products.
• Demonstrated experience preparing technical reports.
• Familiarity with government research settings or industrial laboratory collaborations.