Molecular Lab Analyst

Job Title: Molecular Lab Analyst

Job Description

The Molecular Lab Analyst (Laboratory Analyst II) performs general sample preparation, DNA extractions, and routine PCR and qPCR testing to support GMO analysis of agricultural and food products. This role focuses on executing established testing methods, analyzing and documenting results, troubleshooting laboratory processes, supporting quality systems, and maintaining strict compliance with laboratory procedures and regulatory requirements. The position offers the opportunity to contribute to a growing laboratory operation with modern equipment, diverse projects, and a collaborative, family-style team environment, with potential for full-time employment and holiday pay as part of the contract.

Responsibilities

• Perform quantitative and qualitative GMO testing on corn, soy, and processed food products using established PCR and qPCR methods.
• Prepare samples, including grinding received agricultural and food product samples, and ensure proper handling and labeling throughout the testing process.
• Prepare reagents, controls, standards, and PCR plates in accordance with laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality standards.
• Set up and execute PCR and qPCR runs, including manual preparation of reactions without kits, following in-house protocols.
• Use 96-well plates and transfer to 384-well plates accurately, employing multiple types of pipettes to support high-throughput testing.
• Analyze test results, perform required calculations, and accurately document findings in laboratory information systems and records.
• Troubleshoot PCR workflows, instrumentation issues, and testing deviations to ensure timely, accurate, and reliable results.
• Support nonconformance investigations and root cause analysis activities related to laboratory testing, data integrity, and processes.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration checks, and minor repairs on laboratory equipment to maintain optimal performance.
• Execute and document QA/QC activities in accordance with SOPs, quality systems, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Assist with SOP revisions and updates to reflect process improvements and current best practices.
• Support the training of new laboratory staff on procedures, equipment, and quality requirements.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives within the Quality Management System (QMS) to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Cross-train in mycotoxin testing using LCMS, following established procedures and quality standards.
• Lift items up to 25 pounds from floor to ceiling as needed during the shift to support sample handling and laboratory operations.
• Work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced testing environment, adapting to changing sample flow and priorities.
• Collaborate with colleagues to maintain a service-oriented, team-focused culture and demonstrate the value of the growing laboratory.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• 2–4 years of laboratory experience with hands-on PCR and qPCR testing.
• Strong molecular biology skills, including DNA extraction and assay execution.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare for PCR runs without using commercial kits, with all reagents and reactions manually prepared in-house.
• Proficient pipetting skills, including single-channel, multi-channel, and micro-pipetting, with high precision and consistency.
• Ability to work in an aseptic manner to avoid contamination of samples and reagents.
• Experience using 96-well plates and transferring to 384-well plates for high-throughput assays.
• Solid understanding of quality control principles and laboratory QA/QC practices.
• Strong sample preparation and laboratory documentation skills, including accurate recording of data and observations.
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment such as ISO, GMP, GLP, or similar (preferred).
• Ability to troubleshoot laboratory processes, PCR workflows, and instrumentation issues effectively.
• Capability to lift up to 25 pounds from floor to ceiling when required.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced testing environment while meeting turnaround times.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and adherence to SOPs and regulatory requirements.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with GMO testing of agricultural and food products, particularly corn and soy, is beneficial.
• Familiarity with mycotoxin testing and LCMS techniques is a plus.
• Background in chemistry or related laboratory sciences is advantageous.
• Experience contributing to nonconformance investigations and root cause analysis in a laboratory setting.
• Exposure to Quality Management Systems (QMS) and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Comfort working in environments that can vary between quiet and loud due to equipment such as grinders.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset to thrive in a small, team-oriented lab.
• Service-oriented approach, with the ability to demonstrate value in a growing, start-up style laboratory.
• Flexibility with work hours to accommodate sample flow and customer turnaround requirements.
• Ability to communicate clearly while using personal audio devices when permitted in louder areas.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint Charles, MO.

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $32.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Saint Charles,MO.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.