What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Assistant position at Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?
Join the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture as a Laboratory Assistant and help support efforts that safeguard our state from invasive insect species. This position lets you work hands-on with scientific tools while learning new skills every day. You will be part of a team that values teamwork, accuracy, and a commitment to public service. Step into a role that makes a real difference.
This position plays an important role in identifying insect samples that support entomology programs across the state. The work helps ensure accurate data collection and contributes to environmental protection efforts. As a Laboratory Assistant, you will perform the following duties:
- Microscope Work: Examine insect samples using microscopes and taxonomic keys
- Specimen Preparation: Pin and curate insect specimens for the reference collection
- Data Entry: Record sample details in required databases
- Equipment Support: Assist with organizing and maintaining survey equipment
- Laboratory Records: Maintain clear and accurate laboratory activity logs
- Process Improvement: Apply Lean tools when processes are ready for improvement
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
- Temporary Full-time employment - approximately July 13, 2026 to February 26, 2027
- Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
- Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
- You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
- You must be in possession of an active non-commercial Pennsylvania Class C driver’s license or equivalent.
- You must be willing and able to work in Dauphin County, PA.
- You must be willing to work a temporary, full-time schedule without benefits.
- You must be available to work up to a 9-month position from approximately June 13, 2026 to February 26, 2027
- You must be able to perform essential job functions.
Preferred Qualifications (not required):
- Experience working in a laboratory
- Experience in any of the following areas:
- Microscope
- Taxonomic keys
- Identifying insects
- Pin or curate insect specimens
- Enter data from samples
- Set up and monitor insect survey traps
- Maintain laboratory log
- Determine difference between target and non-target organisms
- Determine difference between common biota in samples and rare biota
- Proper preparation of insect specimens
How to Apply:
- Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
- Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
- Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
- All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.
Veterans:
- Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):
- 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.
The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.