Agricultural Program Technician I
About The Position
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services provides services that promote and improve agriculture, agribusiness, and forests; protect consumers and businesses; and conserve farmland and natural resources for the prosperity of all North Carolinians. The Department employs approximately 2,000 employees. Do you have an interest in providing a unique service that helps NC farmers increase productivity and protect environmental quality? Do you have experience working with microorganisms or microscopes in a laboratory or agricultural setting? The Agronomic Services Division’s Nematology Lab is excited to announce an opening for a Nematology Laboratory Technician. This position is part of a very unique, highly specialized team that identifies microscopic plant-parasitic nematodes (round worms) found in the soil, root, and other plant parts. Nematodes can have a huge economic impact on crop yield and quality if not properly controlled. Our team provides site-specific recommendations for control that reduces the risk for crop loss and protects the environment from unnecessary application of nematicides. If you enjoy a high-volume, fast paced work environment and have extensive knowledge and skills working with a microscope and identifying microorganisms, don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Other functions of this position include organizing and receiving samples, assigning lab numbers, providing customer service, operation of custom-designed laboratory equipment, and performing molecular diagnostic techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis. Normal working hours are 7:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Friday, but occasional seasonal overtime may be required to meet established turnaround times. We can accommodate flexible working hours. Candidate must pass a fitness for duty test paid for by the department prior to employment.
Requirements
- Knowledge of good laboratory and safety practices.
- Ability to express technical information clearly, both orally and in writing, when reporting results and explaining procedures to others.
- Ability to sustain attention to detail for long periods of time.
- Ability to sit for long periods of time using a microscope.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Associate degree in a biological science, horticulture, or a closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and one year of general laboratory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Candidate must pass a fitness for duty test paid for by the department prior to employment.
Responsibilities
- Organizing and receiving samples
- Assigning lab numbers
- Providing customer service
- Operation of custom-designed laboratory equipment
- Performing molecular diagnostic techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis
Benefits
- Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
