Genotyping Laboratory Technician

We are seeking a self-motivated, detail-oriented Laboratory Technician to join at the entry level our genotyping laboratory at CSP Labs (California Seed and Plant Lab, Inc.). The incumbent will be responsible for running molecular genotyping assays on seed and plant material.

Company Profile

CSP Labs is a growth-oriented, full-service plant pathology and genotyping laboratory located in Pleasant Grove, CA. We are known for our rapid, high quality seed and plant testing services, and have a global customer base. The laboratory employs over 50 people in its seed health, plant health, molecular biology, and genotyping laboratories. To learn more, visit csplabs.com, and learn more about working at CSP Labs here. We are conveniently located in the Greater Sacramento area, and are 20 minutes from Downtown Sacramento, 15 minutes from Sacramento International Airport, and 30 minutes from Davis, CA.

Responsibilities

• Sample intake, scheduling, and tracking according to established priorities and workflows
• Prepare samples for nucleic acid extraction including creating extraction plate maps, transferring seed and leaf tissue into deep well plates, grinding, centrifuging and transferring liquid
• Perform nucleic acid extractions using high throughput automated robotic DNA extraction systems
• Routinely wash and sterilize reusable lab supplies
• Run PCR assays: prepare PCR plate maps, prepare master mixes, set up multi-target/multi-sample PCR reactions in a 384-well format
• Liquid handling with pipettes: single channel, multichannel, repeaters, serological, semi-automated high throughput liquid handling equipment, etc.
• Keep track of consumables inventory
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace
• Basic lab chores (making buffers, putting supplies away, autoclave materials, taking out trash & recycling, etc.) and general lab housekeeping (washing general glassware, general cleaning etc.)
• Ensure proper documentation is kept per our SOPs including documenting and communicating test deviations or issues
• Collaborate with teammates to share spaces/equipment and meet turnaround times
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow relevant safety SOPs
• Actively participate in the lab’s quality management system (QMS)
• Help troubleshoot equipment and assay issues
• Assist with other lab tasks or processes as needed
  

Requirements

• Must be willing to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods of time
• Able to pipette small volumes accurately and consistently in 384-well formats
• Strong attention to detail: labeling, plate mapping, documentation, and sample integrity
• Ability to multitask and prioritize work based on deadlines/queue Comfortable working in and with digital systems (LIMS, Google Sheets/Excel)
• Professional communication and reliability in a team environment
• Proactive listener/learner skills – asks questions to ensure clarity
• Can be trained to carry out basic steps of routine protocols with little to no supervision
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time and lift to 40 lbs
• Available Monday to Friday and able to start between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM
• Bachelor of Science/Arts in a biology-related field
  

Equal Opportunity Employer

CSP Labs provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.