Pathology Technologist

JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for providing technical and non-technical assistance to the Pathology Manager: Breeder Support. Responsible for coordinating and conducting diverse tasks such as scheduling routine resistance screens, growing, caring and inoculation of plants used in disease resistance screens, interpreting; processing, and reporting results; maintaining the pathology facilities including but not limited to greenhouse and laboratory. Assist in other pathology activities and collaborate with other departments as requested.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate and conduct disease resistance screenings of germplasm in the laboratory, greenhouse, growth chambers, and field.
• Coordinate and perform the scheduling of disease resistance screens, their evaluation, interpretation, and recording/entry of data. Participate in the evaluation of cultivar reaction to diseases for the development of information necessary for product development and sales.
• Organize and analyze results of disease resistance screens and discoveries from research projects (e.g., evaluation of new methods, development of new protocols) in formal reports to the supervisor.
• Assist in the development and implementation of disease screening protocols, disease diagnosis, and new techniques in other pathology programs (e.g., QA and Seed health), as requested.
• Responsible for performing and coordinating regular maintenance, including the proper control and timely repair of departmental equipment, general housekeeping, and routine clean-up of the pathology facilities.
• Responsible for the growth and care of plants, including but not limited to media preparation, fertilization, watering, pest control, used in disease resistance screening.
• Supervise and/or train technicians, trainees, labor crews, and others as delegated by supervisor ensuring the safety protocols are followed by all non-pathology staff working in the department.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Basic knowledge of plant science, agronomy, microbiology, genetics, molecular biology, statistics.
• Ability to develop excellent laboratory skills/knowledge in microbiology and plant care.
• Ability to do routine and repetitive work in a greenhouse/field or at a laboratory bench for several hours.
• Accuracy, efficiency, good dexterity, and visual acuity are critical.
• Ability to quickly adapt and be receptive to changing work demands, techniques, and/or approaches.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Good oral and written communication, and organizational skills.
• Competency in data management and use of computer applications.
• Willingness to take on a wide variety of tasks and duties.
• Ability to handle stress especially when encountering necessary projects, deadlines and/or high workload.
• Must be able to work under strict time constraints and requirements.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS/EXPERIENCE/BACKGROUND:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology/microbiology, agronomy, or related field, or equivalent in work experience.
• Experience in laboratory and/or greenhouse/field work desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be willing to work overtime hours, including some weekends and holidays, as requested.
• Must be able to work with chemicals, pesticides, and other irritating substances.
• Must be able to wear protective equipment when necessary and/or required (e.g., lab coat, gloves, respirator).
• Must be able to stand or sit for several hours at a time (up to 70% of time).
• Must be able to do some lifting of lightweight items (50 lbs.).

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Salary: $27.00-$29.00 per hour
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance coverage for employees and their families
• Basic Life & AD&D Insurance
• 401k program with company match
• Profit Sharing program (via 401k)
• Holiday & Performance Incentive Bonus program
• Paid Vacation: 10 days per year to start, increases with tenure
• Sick Leave: 1 hour accrued per 30 hours worked for first 30 days, 6.67 hours per month thereafter.
• 14 paid company holidays, 2 floating holidays & birthday off
• Paid Family Leave: 15 days after 12 months of service for FMLA qualifying events
• Company provided EAP
• Company provided subsidy for health/fitness clubs & apps