What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Assistant position at Actalent?
Job Title: Laboratory Technician
Job Description
Join our dynamic team as a Laboratory Technician specializing in seed processing. This role offers a balanced mix of research and production responsibilities, providing an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to scientific research and laboratory operations.
Responsibilities
- Assist technical personnel in general laboratory operations and routine information handling tasks to support scientific research.
- Perform tasks according to accepted methods and training provided by the work group.
- Prepare and process seed samples, including grinding, punching, and occasionally hand chipping.
- Assist with cleaning, handling, packaging, and storing seed or samples.
- Identify and implement process improvement opportunities continually.
- Stand, sit, or move for extended periods as required.
Essential Skills
- Experience in agriculture, seed technology, laboratory operations, chemistry, biology, microbiology, genetics, and plant science.
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences such as Biology, Genetics, or Microbiology.
Work Environment
This role is based in a high-throughput production laboratory within the Franklin building, consisting of four distinct stations with a focus on grinding and punching seed samples. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, loud environment, with hearing protection provided. The team culture is close-knit and supportive, encouraging collaboration and flexibility. Standard work hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with options for a flexible start time. Dress code is casual, including jeans, closed-toed shoes, and an appropriate shirt.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $20.00 - $21.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Johnston,IA.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Mar 31, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is 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
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
Salary : $20 - $21