Laboratory Technician

Lab Technician

Job Description

The Lab Technician supports crop transformation and genome editing research by performing laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining a high-quality, safe lab environment. This role actively contributes to new technology development and process improvement studies, works closely with a collaborative team, and communicates experimental results clearly through summaries, reports, and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Follow the direction of supervisors to carry out crop transformation and genome editing experiments according to established protocols.
• Collect, organize, and document data from experiments 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 analyzing data.
• Adhere to all safety policies, protocols, and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and team members.
• Support team activities such as explant preparation, equipment maintenance, media assessment and improvement, culture room maintenance, process improvement, and information management.
• Provide technical support to the team and conduct experiments with a respectful, collaborative, and positive team spirit.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely records of experimental procedures, observations, and results.
• Prepare clear summaries and reports for supervisors and present results at internal or external meetings when needed.
• Follow detailed procedures and instructions while also carrying out experiments independently when appropriate.
• Contribute to the custodianship and proper use of laboratory equipment and materials.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in plant science, biological science, genetics, horticulture, biotechnology, or a related field.
• Knowledge and experience in general laboratory operations.
• Ability to follow procedures and instructions and carry out experiments independently.
• Strong skills in sampling and detailed record keeping for experimental work.
• Ability to maintain complete, accurate, and timely records of experimental data and procedures.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Willingness to support a high-quality laboratory environment through proper equipment care and strict adherence to lab safety practices.
• Ability to function both independently and as a respectful, collaborative team member.

Work Environment

This role is based in a laboratory environment focused on crop transformation and genome editing research. The position follows a Monday through Friday, first-shift schedule. The work involves routine use of standard laboratory equipment, preparation of plant explants and media, maintenance of culture rooms, and careful handling of biological materials. The Lab Technician works closely with a collaborative team, participates in group activities to support lab operations, and follows strict safety and quality practices to maintain an organized, high-performing research environment.

This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Johnston,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 14, 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