Laboratory Assistant (Temporary)

Are you looking for an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and experience working in a scientific environment? The Department of Agriculture's Plant Protection Division is seeking a temporary Laboratory Assistant to join our team! This is your chance to assist with identifications of invasive insect survey samples for entomology programs. Apply today to help protect Pennsylvania's natural resources and vital agriculture and gain invaluable laboratory experience!

As a temporary Laboratory Assistant, you will support identifications of invasive insect survey samples for entomology programs. You will use microscope and taxonomic keys to identify insects from various samples, pin and curate insect specimens for our internal insect reference collection, enter data from samples into required databases, and assist entomology staff with survey equipment management. This is an incredible opportunity to help Pennsylvania in its mission of identification and regulatory control of plant pests, including insects, nematodes, fungi, bacteria and viruses that impact Pennsylvania's natural resources and abundant flora!

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Temporary, full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Special Requirements:

• You must possess an active non-commercial Pennsylvania Class C driver's license or equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

• You must be willing and able to work in Dauphin County, PA.
• You must be willing to work a temporary, full-time schedule without benefits.
• You must be available to work up to a 9-month position approximately beginning in August 2025.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

• Experience working in a laboratory.
• Experience performing or working with one of the following items:
  • Microscope
  • Taxonomic keys
  • Identifying insects
  • Pin or curate insect specimens
  • Enter data from samples
  • Set up and monitor insect survey traps
  • Maintain laboratory log
  • Determine difference between target and non-target organisms
  • Determine difference between common biota in samples and rare biota
  • Proper preparation of insect specimens

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.