LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I

Date: Jan 2, 2026

Req ID: 54842

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72205

Category: ARKANSAS AGRICULTURE DEPT

Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137

Position Number: 22087956
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: Open Until Filled
Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137
Lab Services

Hiring Authority:

#1 Natural Resources Drive

Little Rock, AR 72205

Phone: 501/823-1726

Email: cheryl.fossler@arkansas.gov

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Job Series: Laboratory – Career Path

Classification: Laboratory Technician I

Class Code: SLA04P

Pay Grade: SGS06

Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163

Job Summary

The Laboratory Technician I is an entry-level position responsible for performing basic laboratory support duties including specimen handling, sample preparation, equipment cleaning, and assistance with routine lab processes. This role is ideal for individuals beginning a career in laboratory science within a government environment. Under close supervision, the technician learns to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) while supporting experienced lab staff in daily operations.

Primary Responsibilities

Receive, label, and log laboratory specimens and samples in accordance with internal protocols. Prepare basic solutions, media, or buffers under supervision. Assist with the organization of laboratory materials and supplies. Perform basic tasks such as pipetting, weighing, or centrifuging samples following detailed instructions. Operate basic laboratory equipment (e.g., centrifuge, incubator, balance) after training. Maintain cleanliness and readiness of laboratory equipment and workspace. Accurately record sample details, test information, and inventory logs using lab data systems or paper records. File, archive, and label materials in compliance with laboratory regulations and retention policies. Adhere to laboratory safety guidelines including proper PPE usage and safe handling of hazardous materials. Follow all agency policies related to contamination control, waste disposal, and equipment sanitation.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of basic laboratory practices and procedures, general scientific principles, safety protocols, and recordkeeping methods. Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions, perform repetitive tasks with accuracy and minimal supervision, and handle laboratory samples safely. Ability to maintain accurate and complete records, prioritize tasks, and communicate effectively. Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.

Minimum Qualifications

At least six months of experience in laboratory science, or a related field.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Preferred Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s Degree in a related Science field such as Plant Sciences, Botany, or Biology.
The ability and willingness to regularly wear personal protective equipment and to comply with fit testing requirements is a fundamental requirement of this position.
Preparedness to be trained in handling potentially infectious and/or hazardous materials including, but not limited to, animal bodily fluids, tissues, microbiological cultures, and agricultural samples containing pesticides.
Laboratory positions involve precise, repetitive work in high-throughput environments, e.g., sorting of seeds, weighing specimens, pipetting, cutting of animal tissues, etc.
This position is on-site, essential and is not approved for remote work.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.