Genetic Purity Technologist

JOB DESCRIPTION: 

We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team to apply cutting-edge tools and techniques in molecular biology, genetics, and genomics in routine seed business operations. Daily activities will include sample preparation, high-throughput DNA extractions, and work with various genotyping platforms and tools for routine marker testing and fingerprint analysis. You will be primarily responsible to assess genetic purity, variety identification, identifying mixtures or off-types, and determining hybrid purity, conduct ploidy testing, and utilize software and tools for data visualization, analysis, and reporting. Task also includes assisting the team on innovative research initiatives and implementation. This position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic, cross-functional environment with an experienced team aiming to push the boundaries of genetic testing and molecular breeding. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and will enjoy working in a team setting.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES*:

• This position provides routine support for all activities in the lab and any new activities, as assigned by the lab manager. Conduct routine lab activities including sample test receiving and entry, sample preparation and specific sample testing steps, setting up marker tests for genotyping assays, and follow established protocols.
• Responsible for routine DNA marker testing and ploidy testing and assisting in analysis and evaluation of results.
• Maintain chemical stock solutions and laboratory equipment, assist in the handling of hazardous waste, maintain lab cleanliness.
• Assist in data entry, documentation, and reporting results.
• Present professionally and exercise sound judgement in all interactions.
• Assists in research and development projects in new protocol development, improving or changing existing procedures, molecular marker development, genotyping assays, breeding support, as requested.
• Assists in supervision and training of temporary employees, trainees, interns, and others, as delegated by lab manager.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Strong knowledge of biology, chemistry and biochemistry, molecular genetics, and math.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and organizational skills. Must be able to interact cooperatively with supervisors, lab personnel and other staff. Must be able to work independently or as part of a team, multi-task, and take directions well.
• Ability to develop excellent laboratory skills in molecular biology, genetics, genotyping, and molecular breeding.
• Must have excellent spatial perception, mathematical aptitude, auditory discrimination, visual discrimination, manual dexterity, and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to learn new software and computer applications. Strong knowledge and capability to understand laboratory equipment operation.
• Fast learner of appropriate technical and semi-technical skills and ability to work in fast-paced environment.
• Ability to handle stress especially when encountering necessary projects, deadlines and/or high workload.
• Must be able to do accurate and detailed work under strict time constraints and deadlines, and able to adjust to seasonal surges in workload.
• Must have the ability to organize and prioritize work in completing routine tests.
• Ability to quickly adapt and be receptive to changing work demands, techniques, and/or approaches. Willingness to take on a wide variety of tasks and duties.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in plant science, biology, genetics, plant breeding, microbiology, or related field. Two or more years of relevant molecular genetics lab work experience is desired.

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND:

• Experience working with crop breeding, molecular biology, and molecular markers/genotyping lab is required.
• Experience in an agricultural and/or commercial setting is desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to work with hazardous laboratory chemicals and other possible irritating substances.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (Protective gloves, safety glasses & lab coat 60-80% of the time, and respirator 15% of the time) when necessary and/or required.
• Must be able to stand, sit, and/or bend for long periods of time.
• Must be willing to work overtime hours, including some weekends and holidays, as requested.
• Must be able to do some lifting of lightweight (< 50 lbs.) items.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Salary: $25-$29 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