The School of Plant and Environmental Sciences (SPES) is seeking a highly organized and motivated Laboratory Technician to support ongoing research projects in the chemical and physical properties of soil and stormwater runoff.
The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting the lab manager in the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the laboratory. Primary duties include preparing samples, conducting routine and specialized laboratory analyses, maintaining and calibrating scientific equipment, and ensuring compliance with university environmental health and safety (EHS) regulations. The Technician will also assist in providing training or guidance to undergraduate and graduate student researchers on basic lab protocols. Occasional field work such as collecting soil/plant samples at research farms or field sites may be required.

● Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience.
● Demonstrated experience working in a scientific research laboratory.
● Knowledge of standard laboratory safety protocols and hazardous waste disposal procedures.
● Strong organizational and time-management skills with a high attention to detail.
● Proficiency in standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Excel) for data entry and basic record keeping.
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

● Experience with specific analytical techniques such as soil extractions for nutrient analysis and instrument upkeep and maintenance.
● Prior experience conducting field research or agricultural sampling.

2

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Restricted

$20.00 - $25.00; commensurate with experience

Varies

September 29, 2026

Virginia Tech is unable to sponsor work visas for this position.
Moderate to heavy lifting (25 pounds plus).
Safe driving record.
Ability to work in outside elements (i.e. weather.)
Considerable walking, standing, bending, stooping.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

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