Laboratory Assistant II

Laboratory Assistant II
$23 - $26/hr with medical benefits available at a cost
6 month initial contract
Location: Research Triangle Park, NC

Orion Group and a global Agriscience company are teaming up for a new contract opportunity for a Laboratory Assistant in North Carolina. Our client is seeking candidates to support research operations through insect colony maintenance, media preparation, and laboratory work under the direct supervision of a lead scientist.

Apply today and take the first step towards your next career opportunity!!!!
 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Insect Rearing and Greenhouse Trial Support
• Rear and maintain fall armyworm colonies in controlled environmental conditions (warm, humid environments)
• Collect and handle insects at various life stages
• Prepare specialized insect diets following established protocols
• Monitor colony health and development daily
• Assist with root harvest operations
• Wash and prepare root samples for evaluation
• Clean and sanitize work areas and equipment post-harvest
• Maintain accurate records of rearing activities in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Molecular Biology Lab Support
• Accurately execute routine wet lab experiments and protocols related to plant physiology, microbiology, and molecular biology (e.g., buffer preparation, microbial culturing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, plant tissue handling).
• Perform tasks with precision and attention to detail within a high-throughput laboratory setting, ensuring the quality and integrity of samples and data.
• Maintain thorough and accurate records of experimental procedures, observations, and results in electronic laboratory notebooks (e.g., Benchling).

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Associate degree or coursework in Biology, Entomology, Agriculture, or related field, Preferred: Bachelor's degree or coursework in Biology, Entomology, Agriculture, or related field Previous experience in laboratory, greenhouse, or agricultural settings
• Attention to Detail: Ability to follow precise instructions and maintain accurate records.
• Manual Dexterity: Comfortable handling small insects and delicate plant materials Reading Comprehension: Ability to read, understand, and execute written protocols.
• Data Entry: Proficiency with computer systems and LIMS databases.
• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication with team members Physical Stamina: Ability to work in warm, humid conditions and perform repetitive tasks Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications:

• Basic understanding of insect life cycles and development Knowledge of plant growth and maintenance
• Foundational experience with microbiology techniques (e.g., aseptic technique, culturing) and/or molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA handling, PCR).
• Previous laboratory or agricultural experience
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Tolerance for warm and humid working conditions Ability to lift up to 25-30 pounds Manual dexterity for handling small specimens and equipment

People are our business worldwide
 
Orion Group was founded in 1987 and is now one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 employees working from 24 offices, delivering a range of services – Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Outsourcing Services, Retained Search, Global Workforce Solutions, Completions & Commissioning and Materials Management – across 68 countries. As a global leader in workforce solutions, we recruit personnel across the Engineering & Technical, Office & Commercial, Scientific and Skilled Trades disciplines, for sectors including Oil & Gas, Life Science, Power & Utilities, Constructions & Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Renewables.