LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I

Position Number: 22087883; County: Pulaski; Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137; Hiring Authority: Ella Greeley, 501/539-3172, ella.greeley@arkansas.gov

About the role

The Laboratory Technician I is an entry-level position responsible for performing basic laboratory support duties including specimen handling, sample preparation, equipment cleaning, and assistance with routine lab processes. This role is ideal for individuals beginning a career in laboratory science within a government environment. Under close supervision, the technician learns to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) while supporting experienced lab staff in daily operations.

Responsibilities

• Receive, label, and log laboratory specimens and samples in accordance with internal protocols.
• Prepare basic solutions, media, or buffers under supervision.
• Assist with the organization of laboratory materials and supplies.
• Perform basic tasks such as pipetting, weighing, or centrifuging samples following detailed instructions.
• Operate basic laboratory equipment (e.g., centrifuge, incubator, balance) after training.
• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of laboratory equipment and workspace.
• Accurately record sample details, test information, and inventory logs using lab data systems or paper records.
• File, archive, and label materials in compliance with laboratory regulations and retention policies.
• Adhere to laboratory safety guidelines including proper PPE usage and safe handling of hazardous materials.
• Follow all agency policies related to contamination control, waste disposal, and equipment sanitation.

Skills

Knowledge of basic laboratory practices and procedures, general scientific principles, safety protocols, and recordkeeping methods. Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions, perform repetitive tasks with accuracy and minimal supervision, and handle laboratory samples safely. Ability to maintain accurate and complete records, prioritize tasks, and communicate effectively. Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications: At least six months of experience in laboratory science, or a related field.
• Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in plant sciences, Agronomy, Biology, or a related field. Prior experience in seed production, seed testing, or agricultural laboratory operations. Demonstrated familiarity with laboratory equipment and adherence to established standard operating procedures (SOP). Ability to comply with all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and fit‑testing standards. Capacity to be trained in the safe handling of potentially infectious or hazardous materials, including animal tissues, bodily fluids, microbiological cultures, and agricultural samples containing pesticides. Ability to perform precise, repetitive tasks in high‑throughput laboratory environments (such as seed sorting, weighing, or pipetting). Strong attention to detail and proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team. Readiness to perform additional responsibilities as assigned, including, but not limited to, receiving training to support operations in other laboratories. Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Pay

Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163