• Technician IV

    Texas A&M University System (College Station, TX)


    Job Title

     

    Technician IV

     

    Agency

     

    Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service

     

    Department

     

    Entomology

     

    Proposed Minimum Salary

     

    Commensurate

     

    Job Location

     

    College Station, Texas

     

    Job Type

     

    Staff

    Job Description

    The Technician IV serves as a pivotal member of the laboratory team, demonstrating advanced expertise in diagnostic laboratory functions. The technician will play a critical role in evaluating colony health, processing diagnostic samples, and contributing to ongoing research focused on honey bee pests, pathogens, and colony performance.

    Responsibilities:

    - Perform diagnostic testing on honey bee samples to detect pests, pathogens, and other health indicators using microscopy and molecular techniques.

     

    -Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory and diagnostic equipment.

     

    -Collect, process, label, and analyze honey bee, brood, or hive product samples following standardized protocols to ensure timely diagnostics.

     

    -Maintain laboratory records and digital data documentation for all incoming samples.

     

    -Monitor and maintain inventory of lab supplies, reagents, and chemicals.

     

    -Ensure safe handling and disposal of hazardous and biological waste.

     

    -Support field sample collection efforts and assists with beekeeper outreach related to sample submission procedures.

     

    -Conduct honey bee dissections and routine diagnostic tests such as Nosema sp. counts, virus screenings, and genetic testing.

     

    -Assist with quality assurance, method validation, and standard operating procedures for honey bee diagnostics.

     

    -Other duties as required.

    Required Education and Experience:

    - Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

     

    -Two years of related experience.

    Preferred Experience:

    -Previous laboratory experience with honey bee sample processing, molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR, Whole Genome Sequencing), microscopy, and/or pathogen screening is highly desirable.

    Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

    -A bility to work independently and collaboratively in diagnostic or research-focused environments, with a high level of attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to data accuracy and integrity.

     

    - Good communication and computer skills.

     

    - Ability to multi task and work cooperatively with others.

    Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

    - Strong foundational knowledge of honeybee biology, pathology, and standard beekeeping practices, with an emphasis on diagnostic procedures and colony health evaluation.

     

    All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

     

    Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.