Title: Lab Technician I – Protein Analysis Immunochemistry
Location: Johnston, IA
Duration: 2+ months
Schedule: 8am-5pm (Start time may vary between 7:30am-8:30am after training)

Description:

About the Role 
Client Agriscience is seeking a responsible and highly motivated Lab Technician I to join our Protein Analysis Immunochemistry (PAIC) team within the Protein and Analytical Core Technologies (PACT) group. The PAIC team specializes in high-throughput detection and quantification of target proteins in transgenic plants using advanced antibody-based techniques. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to innovative agricultural solutions by supporting quality and timely protein analysis workflows and driving process improvements. The successful candidate will support and utilize automation and software tools to optimize workflows and ensure the accuracy and reliability of protein quantification.
With guidance from supervision, assists technical personnel in general laboratory operations and routine laboratory or information handling tasks in support of scientific research. 
Perform tasks according to accepted methods and training prescribed by the work group.  

Key Responsibilities 

• Protein expression analysis 
• Perform high-throughput plant tissue protein extractions and immunochemistry assays in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 
• Safely operate, maintain, and troubleshoot automated laboratory equipment in accordance with safety procedures. 
• Support routine laboratory operations, including general maintenance, lab supply inventory, reagent preparation, and equipment upkeep. 
• Operations 
• Promote and maintain an organized, safe, and efficient working environment. 
• Identify and implement process improvement opportunities. 
• Ensure adherence to management system guidelines. 
• Learn and utilize laboratory software and automation advancements to improve efficiency and reliability. 
• Assay Maintenance and Quality control 
• Support the execution of timely and quality-controlled protein expression experiments. 
• Execute assay maintenance experiments, including performance optimization and reagent replacement. 
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail when executing experiments, recording data, analyzing results, and documenting conclusions using electronic notebooks and laboratory software. 

Qualifications Required: 

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, or a related field, with 1–3 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Supplemental education or experience in computer science, especially Microsoft Power Apps, is a plus. 
• Attention to detail for troubleshooting performance issues. 
• Demonstrated problem-solving and process improvement skills. 
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. 
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to focus during repetitive tasks in a dynamic environment. 
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and committed to personal and technical growth. 
• Strong written, oral, and organizational skills. Preferred: 
• Experience in immunochemistry, high-throughput analysis, and laboratory automation. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Power Apps or similar workflow automation tools, including leveraging software, data structures, or emerging technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence or machine learning) to support laboratory operations and improve productivity.

Special Equipment Required    

• Laboratory safety glasses and laboratory coat provided

 
 
At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position’s starting pay is: $ 22.00/hr.