Job Description
Position Summary: The Laboratory Assistant will support agricultural research activities through field experimentation, scientific instrumentation, sample collection and processing, laboratory operations, and research data management. The position involves working across multiple field research sites and laboratory environments under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI). This position is a career appointment that is 80% variable. Pay Scale: $27.10/hour to $29.58/hour Job Posting Close Date:
This job is open until filled. The first application review date will be 10/26/2026. Key Responsibilities:
25% |
Sample Collection and Laboratory Processing Collect soil, plant, and water samples from experimental sites following established sampling protocols. Prepare and process samples for laboratory analysis using established procedures. Ensure proper sample labeling, handling, preservation, storage, and transportation to maintain sample integrity. Maintain accurate records of sample collection, processing, and laboratory analysis. |
25% |
Field Research Support Assist in establishing, maintaining, and monitoring research plots across multiple field locations. Implement experimental treatments, including irrigation and fertilizer applications, according to existing protocols established by the PI. Monitor field conditions and document experimental activities to ensure consistent implementation of research protocols. |
20% |
Scientific Instrumentation and Sensors Install, operate, calibrate, and maintain soil, water, and plant monitoring instruments, including portable sensors and data loggers. Conduct field and laboratory measurements using scientific instruments and monitoring equipment. Troubleshoot instrument malfunctions and coordinate repairs or replacements as needed. Maintain equipment calibration and maintenance records to ensure reliable measurements. |
15% |
Research Data Collection Collect, record, organize, and review experimental data from field and laboratory research activities. Download, organize, and manage data from sensors, data loggers, and other monitoring instruments. Perform preliminary data quality checks to identify missing values, inconsistencies, and potential measurement errors. Maintain accurate and organized electronic and physical research records. |
15% |
Laboratory Operations and Research Support Assist with routine laboratory operations, including sample preparation, equipment cleaning, and maintenance. Maintain inventories of laboratory supplies, scientific instruments, and field monitoring equipment. Assist with ordering, receiving, storing, and organizing laboratory and field supplies. Coordinate field sampling, laboratory activities, and equipment needs with the PI and other research team members. Follow established laboratory and field safety procedures. Perform other research-related duties as assigned. |
Requirements:
- Coursework and basic understanding of the scientific principles behind research area.
- Ability to perform physically strenuous field activities (lifting, carrying, harvesting, soil sampling, etc.) in the summer heat.
- Ability to use specialized lab and field equipment, with training.
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks carefully and accurately.
- Ability to use data collection and measurement software, as well as Excel, PowerPoint and Word in order to detail the measurement.
Special Conditions of Employment:
- Must possess valid California Driver's License to drive a County or University vehicle. Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability damage insurance on vehicle used is required. Reimbursement of job-related travel will be reimbursed according to University policies.
- Travel including travel outside normal business hours may be requested.
- The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check. This is a designated position requiring a background check and may require fingerprinting due to the nature of the job responsibilities. UC ANR does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities.
- As of January 1, 2014, ANR is a smoke- and tobacco-free environment in which smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes), is strictly prohibited.
- As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an 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; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
About Us
The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) brings the power of University of California research and education to all 58 California counties. Through research and extension in agriculture, natural resources, economic growth, nutrition, and youth development, we work to improve the life of every Californian. Collaborating to solve problems. Connecting to serve communities. For over 100 years, our advisors, specialists, faculty and staff have been committed to connecting Californians to their land grant university. We are highly collaborative and mission-driven to promote the health and well-being of people and places across the state. We are also trusted partners with hundreds of community organizations in addressing California's most pressing challenges. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.
How to Apply
Internal Candidates*: To apply as an internal UC ANR employee, please go to:
https://ucphrprdpub.universityofcalifornia.edu/psp/ucphrprd/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_EMP_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Employee&SiteId=18&JobOpeningId=89391&PostingSeq=1
External Candidates*: You must register to apply for a job or create a job search agent profile. Click the 'Register Now' link and follow the steps to create the account. The system will not prompt you to register until you try to apply for a job online.
*Employment applications must be submitted online through our careers site. Please note, we do not accept resumes or applications by email or on paper.
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University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
$27.10 - $29.58 / hr
Oct 12, 2026