Lab Assistant II (9603C), Insect Biology Division - #78248

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty and staff.

As a world-leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice. Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic and social value.

We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.

At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups (staff organizations). Our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. Find out more about how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley.

Departmental Overview

The Insect Biology Division generally produces research pertaining to insect biology, ecology, and methods of control.

Position Summary

The Van Steenwyk laboratory conducts entomological research and evaluates reduced risk and organically approved insecticides for control of deciduous fruit, nut and vine pests as well as beneficial arthropods. After initial training, the successful candidate will assist senior staff in both field and laboratory studies. The successful candidate will work as a team member under the supervision of senior staff with field studies (trap monitoring, population sampling, pesticide applications, etc.) in the summer and data input and analysis in the winter as well as laboratory experimentation. In the summer, field studies may require departing from campus before 8:00 am and/or returning after 5:00 pm.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: June 2, 2025

Responsibilities

• Conduct entomological field and laboratory trials of pests and beneficial arthropods on deciduous fruit, nut and vine crop.
• Conduct Insecticide tolerance studies of various insect pests of deciduous fruit, nut and vine crops.
• Inspect various deciduous fruit, nut and vine crops for insect damage.
• Apply insecticides for control of insect pests of deciduous fruit, nut and vine crops.
• Organize maintain, and statistically analyze data from the above studies.
• Prepare reports and presentations of the above studies.
• Maintain laboratory in a clean and organized manner.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to work in various temperature ranging from hot to dry conditions.
• Great attention to detail.
• Experience in experimental biology.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Field data collection.
• Ability to work as a team player.
• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma.
• Two years of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences and one year of laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

The budgeted hourly rate that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $22.02 (Step 1).

• This is a full-time, Career position that is eligible for full UC benefits.
• This is a non-exempt, bi-weekly paid position.

How to Apply

• To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Other Information

This position is governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Technical Unit (TX) between the University of California and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE). The current bargaining agreement manual can be found at: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/tx/index.html

• This is not a visa opportunity.

Misconduct

SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy

UC Anti-Discrimination Policy

Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.