Address:  3721 E WIER AVENUE
PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85040

Salary: $21.90 HOURLY

Grade: 18

Closing Date: 11/29/2024

The Arizona Cotton Research and Protection Council (ACRPC) invites applicants to apply for a Laboratory Technician position. Learn fundamental microbiology and molecular techniques to further your skill set and advance your future in the lab. Specialized techniques will include isolations, identification of strains, vegetative compatibility analysis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), etc. Enjoy the freedom of working independently and gaining experience with project management.

• Prepares and processes soil, seed, leaf, and corn samples to be used in lab testing. Isolating and identifying certain species of Aspergilli to be tested using vegetative compatibility analyses.
• Performs good microbiological practice (GMP), and aseptic techniques.
• Proficient in basic aspects of microbiology techniques.
• Prepares culture media, and chemical stock solutions.
• Uses a pipette aseptically. Performs plate counts, serial dilutions, saves, and inoculations.
• Processes samples within a bio-safety cabinet. Prepares wet and dry supplies.
• Performs tedious tasks and pays close attention to detail. Enters test results into a database and keeps accurate records.
• Performs equipment maintenance determined by protocols and user manuals.
• Prepare, calibrate, and operate the necessary lab equipment.
• Follows safety standards to prevent hazards.
• Adheres to laboratory protocols and procedures.
• Adheres to a training and required schedule.
• Ability to be cross-trained in the Production Lab.

• Considerable knowledge of elementary facts and principles of chemistry and biology, laboratory practices, aseptic techniques, equipment maintenance, laboratory terminology, calibration, and repair.
• Knowledge of scientific and terminology testing and analysis.
• Knowledge of supervisory techniques.
• Skills in the use of laboratory equipment.
• Skills in oral and written communication with technical and non-technical staff.
• Skills in strong organizational and time management skills.
• Skills in basic computer skills.
• Ability to perform laboratory analysis.
• Ability to keep accurate records.
• Ability to write reports.
• Ability to form effective working relationships.
• Ability to multi-task and set priorities.
• Ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals.
• Ability to cross-train in Production Lab.
• Ability to perform work that requires normal dexterity and foot control.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.

• Any combination of training and experience that meets the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) may be substituted. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in biological or physical science that included laboratory coursework in the basic sciences appropriate to the assignment.
• Minimum of 6 months experience as a bio technician in an appropriate field.

• Successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify), applicable to all newly hired State employees.
• Successfully pass background and reference checks; employment is contingent upon completion of the above-mentioned process and the agency's ability to reasonably accommodate any restrictions.
• State travel is required for State business. Employees who drive on state business must complete any required driver training (see Arizona Administrative Code R2-I0-207.12.) AND having an acceptable driving record for the last 39 months is required including no DUI, suspensions, or revocations and less than 8 points on your license. A copy of your MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) is required at the time of your interview if an Out of State Driver's License was held within the last 39 months.

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver’s License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The Arizona Cotton Research and Protection Council offer a comprehensive benefits package to include:
- Affordable Health, Dental, Vision, and Life and Disability Insurance
- 10 holidays per year
- Paid Vacation and Sick time off - start earning it on your 1st day
- Eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (must meet qualifications)
- Contribute to, and participate in the Arizona State Retirement System
- Ride Share and Public Transit Subsidy
- Career Advancement Opportunities

State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS), the State-sponsored retirement contribution plan, and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after a 27-week waiting period. The ASRS-defined benefit plan provides for life-long income upon retirement.

You will also have the option to participate in a voluntary deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments

For questions about this career opportunity, please call Bernetta Johnson at 602-771-2571 or email BJOHNSON@COTTON.AZ.GOV

Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting 602-771-2571. Request should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.