Laboratory Technician
Missoula, MT
Position Summary
The Laboratory Technician supports day-to-day laboratory operations across multiple molecular biology workflows. This position performs routine laboratory procedures including sample processing, nucleic acid and protein extraction, quality control, NGS library preparation, and sequencing. The technician works across laboratory areas as needed to support project execution, maintain efficient laboratory operations, and generate consistent, high-quality results. The position also maintains accurate laboratory documentation and follows established procedures and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Follow established quality, safety, and laboratory procedures.
- Perform NGS library preparation, library QC, pooling, and sequencing.
- Perform routine molecular biology workflows, including sample processing, extraction, and QC.
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment according to established procedures.
- Maintain accurate sample, reagent, QC, and laboratory documentation
- Support reagent preparation, inventory, cleaning, and general laboratory organization.
- Identify and escalate QC issues, deviations, and unexpected results.
- Support laboratory projects and workflows based on team priorities.
Measures of Success
- Trained on all procedures across laboratory areas
- Independently executes lab procedures
- Produces accurate, reproducible results that meet established QC criteria
- Reliably supports laboratory workload, project timelines, and team priorities
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related life science field
- Experience working in a molecular biology laboratory.
- Hands-on experience working with nucleic acids.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to maintain accurate and complete laboratory documentation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with RNA extraction, QC, library preparation
- Ability to maintain accuracy during repetitive, high-volume laboratory workflows
- Flexibility to adapt to changing laboratory priorities and support multiple workflows as needed
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
- Regular handling of human-derived specimens, including plasma
- Ability to perform repetitive pipetting and other fine-motor laboratory tasks
- Primarily laboratory-based work with periods of standing and repetitive bench work.
- Working safely with potentially hazardous chemicals and biological materials
- Required use of appropriate PPE and adherence to laboratory safety procedures