What are the responsibilities and job description for the Seasonal Laboratory Assistant position at Wheat Marketing Center?
Wheat Marketing Center is seeking a seasonal Laboratory Assistant to engage in wheat testing and technical support of projects and research. This role will work with the existing Laboratory Technicians during the crop quality season (early July to end of September) to meet deadlines and achieve goals, as well as provide support for technical courses and facility tours. This is an hourly position, offering flexibility in working hours based on the needs of assigned tasks and the Lab Supervisor’s direction. Upon completion of the Crop Quality Survey season and the needs of the organization, full-time permanent employment is possible.
EMPLOYMENT DURATION:
- June-October (end date negotiable)
HOW TO APPLY:
- Resume and cover letter should be sent by Wednesday, April 1st with the subject line “Lab Assistant Application” to: info@wmcinc.org
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assists Laboratory Supervisor and Laboratory Technicians for wheat and flour analytical tests
- Supports the research project process including assisting the technical team in the Bake Lab and Pilot Scale Lines (Cracker Line, Asian Noodle Line, Tortilla Line)
- Supports the Crop Quality Process
- Crop quality supply preparation (e.g., labels, sample bags)
- Precise and accurate handling of data and wheat samples
- Daily wheat quality laboratory testing
- Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATION & SKILLS:
- Enrolled in a Science or Food Science/Agriculture program
- College Junior level or higher or graduate student
- Previous laboratory experience preferred but not required
- Must possess a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Must be reliable and prompt
- Must have legal status to work in the U.S.
- Strong work ethic; ability to work independently as well as in a team setting
OTHER POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Standing for long periods of time in a laboratory
- Ability to lift 50lbs
- A valid driver’s license
- No wheat or flour allergies
APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 1, 2026
WMC is located in Northwest Portland in the Pearl District, is accessible by public transportation, and free parking is also available. Applicants are expected to work within the days & times of Monday thru Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm.
This position is temporary and does not include employee benefits, except as required by law. All WMC employees are “at will.”
Wheat Marketing Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are made in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, handicap, military or veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Job Types: Part-time, Temporary
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Education:
- Associate (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20