Laboratory Assistant - Peanut #01354

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Suffolk, VA

2d•$33,828 - $47,764•Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Peanut Services Program’s Aflatoxin Laboratory is seeking applicants for the position of Laboratory Assistant. This position will assist the lead technician in the daily operation of the lab and be responsible for the preparation of samples and lot identity. Additional duties include certifying aflatoxin presence and levels in peanuts and other types of nuts; assisting with the maintenance of the Quality Management System Manual; preparing and staging samples for analysis; recording required information completely and accurately; assisting with grinding of peanut samples; assuring that equipment is properly cleaned, maintained and ready for operation; interpreting sample results; issuing official certificates; and preparing Positive Lot Identification Tags in compliance with USDA guidelines. The selected candidate must be able to work flexible hours with occasional overtime and holidays.

Requirements

Working knowledge of basic laboratory operations, equipment and instrumentation used to analyze a variety of samples preferably as related to peanuts or other agricultural commodities and varying levels of aflatoxin.
Knowledge of fundamental administrative duties, quality assurance, and safety practices related to laboratory operations.
Computer proficiency to include the use of MS Office applications, email and internet.
Ability to collect and analyze data.
Ability to work with limited supervision.
Ability to resolve issues.
Ability to establish, develop and maintain effective interpersonal relationships with industry and agency personnel.
Effective customer service and oral/written communication skills to include interacting professionally with everyone.
Demonstrated ability to comprehend, analyze and interpret rules, regulations and procedures.
Demonstrated ability to prepare written documents.
Selected individual must qualify for USDA Accreditation to issue certificates within eight months of hire date.
Physical demands include working around dust, laboratory equipment and machinery, driving, lifting up to approximately 50 pounds, and standing for long periods of time.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for safety.
A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Nice To Haves

A combination of related education, training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills, and abilities to include knowledge of the various types of peanut aflatoxin testing such as Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC), or the Vicam method.