Laboratory Assistant

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania • Dauphin County, PA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Join the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture as a Laboratory Assistant and help support efforts that safeguard our state from invasive insect species. This position lets you work hands-on with scientific tools while learning new skills every day. You will be part of a team that values teamwork, accuracy, and a commitment to public service. Step into a role that makes a real difference. This position plays an important role in identifying insect samples that support entomology programs across the state. The work helps ensure accurate data collection and contributes to environmental protection efforts.

Requirements

• Must be in possession of an active non-commercial Pennsylvania Class C driver’s license or equivalent.
• Must be willing and able to work in Dauphin County, PA.
• Must be willing to work a temporary, full-time schedule without benefits.
• Must be available to work up to a 9-month position from approximately June 13, 2026 to February 26, 2027
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a laboratory
• Experience in microscope use
• Experience with taxonomic keys
• Experience identifying insects
• Experience pinning and curating insect specimens
• Experience entering data from samples
• Experience setting up and monitoring insect survey traps
• Experience maintaining laboratory log
• Experience determining difference between target and non-target organisms
• Experience determining difference between common biota in samples and rare biota
• Experience with proper preparation of insect specimens

Responsibilities

• Examine insect samples using microscopes and taxonomic keys
• Pin and curate insect specimens for the reference collection
• Record sample details in required databases
• Assist with organizing and maintaining survey equipment
• Maintain clear and accurate laboratory activity logs
• Apply Lean tools when processes are ready for improvement

Benefits

• No benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed