Lab & Research Specialist I

Job Description

The Entomology Department Kuhar Lab is looking for a dedicated individual to apply technical knowledge to assist the vegetable entomology research and Extension program. Applies knowledge of scientific/technical principles, practices, and regulatory requirements of functional areas. Performs a variety of procedures supporting laboratory and field research. Duties will include performing standardized scientific procedures, performing preliminary procedures to prepare, expedite, and facilitate further scientific examination, communicating findings/research results, and repairing and maintaining equipment. May have contact with agricultural producers, other state agencies, faculty and students, as well as the general public to communicate results. This laboratory specialist II position also has responsibilities for supervision of wage employees, and working cooperatively with other team members (graduate students and postdocs). Lab management duties include, but are not limited to: maintaining adequate reserves of laboratory supplies, ordering laboratory supplies as needed, as well as maintaining laboratory orderliness and cleanliness, and ensuring the laboratory is safe. Field Work duties include, but are not limited to: assisting with fieldwork including collecting and processing data, maintaining neat, accurate, and complete documentation. The successful candidate will accurately collect entomological and field data, and assist with data analysis and report writing.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Entomology; or, equivalent years of training and experience; Valid Virginia Driver’s License; Ability to lift 50 lbs

Preferred Qualifications

MS in Entomology; Previous experience working in a laboratory; Knowledge of Virginia Tech's internal systems for purchasing (HokieMart), Wage Timekeeping (Banner Time Entry), Teaching (Canvas), and Travel (Chrome River).

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with Experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

09/21/2025

Additional Information

 

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