Lab Technician, Soil Processing

Pattern Ag is an agricultural technology company leveraging advances in genomics, data science, and microbiology to help farmers improve the productivity and profitability of their land. By applying genomic analysis to farm soil, we unlock a wide range of predictive insights that help farmers optimize their spend on seed, crop protection, and fertility inputs. Combining these insights with the latest in digital sensing, data science, and machine learning, we are ushering in the era of predictive agriculture, powering on-farm decision making for millions of acres, and billions in crop spend.

Before some soil samples are analyzed, they are processed first by drying, grinding, and sieving. Our team is seeking a Lab Technician to support this high throughput soil processing. This is an excellent position in biotechnology for those who would like to work in a fast-paced startup. You will have an opportunity to gain experience with developing technologies and interdisciplinary approaches. 

This is a temporary, full-time position of 40+ hours a week. Work is achieved during 8-hour work days, Monday through Friday and weekend days when necessary. 

Start Date: Immediately upon completion of pre-hire requirements.

Duration: This a temporary position with an estimated end date of December 15. High-performing individuals with an interest in transitioning to permanent staff may have the opportunity.

Compensation: The hourly rate is $22.64 per hour.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain a clean and organized work environment 
• Maintain high throughput expectations
• Oversee dry soil processing, operating and guiding others in the operation of equipment (mixers, ovens, soil grinders) as-needed
• Receive and sort samples according to the analysis ordered
• Handle high-temperature materials (360 C+) using a furnace in order to analyze soil samples for organic matter by loss-on-ignition (PPE provided)
• Perform equipment maintenance as needed

Skills and Special Requirements: 

• Ability to multitask and work in a fast paced environment
• Flexible working hours required; Bonus: willingness to come in for midnight sample exchange
• Detail oriented
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lb
• Comfortable working with large volumes of soil and soil slurry
• Comfortable performing repetitive tasks
• Comfortable working with chemicals and sharps while following safety procedures (PPE provided)
• Bonus: soil processing machinery is under development. The ideal candidate for this role will be comfortable with basic computer/IT troubleshooting, as well as using hand tools.

Required Experience:

• Demonstrated laboratory experience.
• Ability to understand and follow experimental protocols and procedures.
• Having knowledge of laboratory safety guidelines.
• Bachelor’s degree in any technical field or 1 year of full time laboratory experience.

Location: Emeryville, CA 

Work Environment & Physical Demands: 

The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing duties of this job, will be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, stoop or kneel, and use fingers and hands.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work while standing for most of one’s shift
• Ability to work in a loud environment (PPE provided)
• Job will be performed in a lab environment. 
• Dress is casual and Protective Personal Equipment is supplied as well as lab coats.

We're excited to review your application!