Researcher

Job Title: Researcher – Precision Genomics (TaqMan PCR Lab, 2nd Shift)

Job Description

The Researcher – Precision Genomics role supports high-throughput genotyping in a highly automated detection laboratory. You will work in the TaqMan PCR Lab to help deliver daily and weekly genotyping targets under tight deadlines, performing a mix of manual and semi-automated PCR setup and related laboratory tasks. This entry-level position is ideal for candidates with a science degree who thrive in fast-paced, production-focused environments and are eager to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge automated instrumentation in precision genomics.

Responsibilities

• Process samples through production workflows using both manual and automated laboratory equipment to meet daily and weekly genotyping targets.
• Perform manual and semi-automated TaqMan PCR setup to support biotech and trait pipelines.
• Operate, care for, and maintain automation systems and other laboratory instruments, including performing preventative and autonomous maintenance tasks.
• Monitor, troubleshoot, and resolve basic issues with instrumentation and automation independently, escalating when necessary.
• Use Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for accurate sample tracking, data entry, and workflow management.
• Carry out routine lab health activities, including maintaining a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Contribute to sample setup, instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and occasional experimental design as part of daily responsibilities.
• Collaborate closely with 1–2 full-time employees and 1–2 contractors on the same shift, as well as with team members across other shifts.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues working on-site and those who may work remotely to ensure smooth handoffs between shifts.
• Support high-throughput production by handling large numbers of samples with a strong sense of urgency and attention to detail.
• Participate in cross-training opportunities, including potential training in Library Creation workflows that support accelerated breeding programs.
• Follow established protocols, standard operating procedures, and quality standards for all laboratory and production activities.
• Demonstrate reliability and consistent attendance to support business-critical operations across multiple shifts.
• Contribute to process optimization efforts within the production and maintenance-focused workflows when opportunities arise.
• Safely lift and move items up to 40 pounds as needed for laboratory operations.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline (science degree required; biology strongly preferred).
• 0–2 years of relevant experience, which may include academic, internship, or industry laboratory work.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment, which may include laboratory, retail, restaurant, shipping, or other high-throughput settings.
• Ability to reliably support a Monday–Friday 2nd shift schedule (1:00 pm – 9:00 pm) with flexibility for occasional off-shift or extended hours during peak periods.
• Comfort operating and learning manual and automated laboratory equipment and following detailed technical protocols.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills to manage large numbers of samples and tasks accurately.
• Ability to make decisions independently within defined procedures and to prioritize tasks in a production setting.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with team members across shifts and locations.
• Demonstrated reliability, strong work ethic, flexibility, agility, and a sense of urgency in meeting production goals.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds safely as part of routine laboratory duties.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with high-throughput or production laboratory workflows, including handling large numbers of samples per day.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for sample tracking and data management.
• Automation or mechanical aptitude, including comfort running, monitoring, and troubleshooting automated instruments.
• Biology experience with an interest in or exposure to engineering, technical, or mechanical systems.
• Intermediate proficiency with office applications such as Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Advanced or proficient skills in Excel for data handling and basic analysis.
• Experience in fast-paced non-laboratory environments (such as retail, food service, or shipping) that demonstrates strong multitasking and time-management capabilities.
• Master’s and Ph.D. degrees are not required and are not recommended for this entry-level, production-focused role.
• No specific certifications are required for this position.

Work Environment

This role is based in a laboratory setting in Chesterfield, MO, within a large, highly automated genotyping and detection facility. You will work primarily in the TaqMan PCR Lab on a Monday–Friday 2nd shift schedule from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The environment is production-focused and fast-paced, processing millions of samples per year with quick turnaround times. You will regularly use automated instrumentation, PCR equipment, and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and you will perform both manual and semi-automated workflows. The team consists of about 45 people across multiple shifts, including many contingent workers, with a culture that is outgoing, productive, and results-oriented. Communication between shifts is strong, and the atmosphere is casual while maintaining a high volume of work and high standards for quality and safety. The role may occasionally require flexible or off-shift hours during peak periods, and you must be able to safely lift up to 40 pounds. Over time, high-performing team members may have opportunities for cross-training in other sub-teams and for consideration for longer-term or future full-time roles as they become available.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Chesterfield, MO.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $27.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Chesterfield,MO.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

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