Lab Research Assistant

RiceTec • Alvin, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Working under the Grain Quality Lab Supervisor, the Research Assistant is expected to follow established SOPs, maintain safe laboratory practices, use required PPE, and contribute to equipment calibration, maintenance, and workflow reliability. Strong organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage repetitive benchwork are essential. This role also contributes to process improvement by identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and consistency across lab workflows. This is an onsite position requiring flexibility during peak workload periods, including possible overtime or weekend support.

Requirements

• B.S. in Biological or Chemical Sciences or High School diploma and 3+ years of laboratory experience
• Experience and knowledge in safe laboratory practices, including use of PPE, SDSs, and handling and disposal of laboratory waste.
• Ability to carry out testing Independently
• Strong computer skills; knowledge of Microsoft
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and follow-up on work assignments while maintaining accurate records.
• Ability to effectively communicate and coordinate with interdepartmental personnel and leaders to maximize effectiveness
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; establish and maintain effective working relationships within and across teams and functions.
• Ability to explain, demonstrate, and provide hands-on training to junior lab staff on proper execution of SOP.
• Work, Communication, and Interpersonal skills.
• Strong team and communication skills.
• Contributes to a positive and supportive working environment; communicates and offers. Solutions regarding issues at the workplace.
• Ability to draw sound conclusions based on a mixture of analysis and experience.
• Seeks opportunities to assist others and the company; coordinates work with others to maximize effectiveness; has a sense of ownership and responsibility for the success of team goals.
• Initiative to take unassigned tasks that are relevant to program success.
• Open and willing to share information.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized tests: milling, grinding, weighing, chemical prep, chemical testing maintaining consistent data generation according to company standards
• Equipment maintenance: Calibrations, and periodic maintenance of mechanical instruments and liquid handlers
• Data entry: logging results, managing multi-interface documents, tracking samples movement in pipeline, LIMS knowledge
• Perform plant tissue DNA extractions, sample and assay array, PCR, and genotyping assay detection
• Suggest, test, validate and contribute to process improvement endeavors

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree