Laboratory

Position Title: Laboratory Technician
Location: 1000 West Jefferson Street, P.O. Box 1000, Tipton, IN 46072
Expected Duration: 5+ months.
Estimated Start Date: 7/29/2024
Requested Pay Rate - $19/hr on W2

Job Description

We are seeking a Laboratory Technician to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in basic laboratory practices, data entry, and quality testing of agricultural seed samples and a proven ability to meet accuracy, throughput, and attendance metrics in a high-volume lab.

Orientation & Schedule:

• Two training classes: August 3 (need 8 candidates) and August 17 (need 6 candidates). Weekly starts allowed as of 7/27 until need is filled.
• Attendance is required during the first 30 days of training. Candidates must not have planned time off.
• Shift: 7:00am – 3:30pm. Weekly schedule: 40 hours with overtime from July through December as needed. Day shift until October. Some weekends and overtime may be required.

Responsibilities:

• Perform quality testing per ISTA and AOSA standards and established sampling guidelines.
• Verify, record, and enter test results with consistent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Conduct standard germination tests on corn, wheat, soy, and sorghum, including preparing seed rolls and evaluating seedlings.
• Monitor and assist with the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment in alignment with Safety and Health guidelines and housekeeping practices.
• Cross-train and support other lab functions during peak or critical periods.
• Ensure activities meet Quality Plan requirements and reduce redundant or unnecessary testing where possible.
• Troubleshoot issues, identify quality defects, and recommend productivity and method improvements.
• Develop and maintain clear communication and rapport with site personnel.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Entry-level computer skills and accurate data entry using tablets or similar systems.
• Detail orientation with consistent accuracy and transactional excellence in repetitive tasks.
• Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods and perform repetitive motions. Willingness and ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior laboratory or quality assurance experience in agricultural or scientific environments.
• Familiarity with ISTA and AOSA methods and productivity metrics environments.

Training Plan:

• Initial focus on planting techniques and machine operation, followed by approximately 15 hours of seedling evaluation training.
• Progress to independent evaluation of commercial corn, planting corn, and soybeans within two to three weeks.

Work Environment:

• High-energy lab with 30–50 workers. Mix of group and individual tasks.
• Contractors evaluated on accuracy, performance, attendance, and speed.

Client & Engagement Details:

• Legal Entity: Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc (0684). Hours per day: 8. Labor Type: Scientific.
• Medical surveillance testing: No.

About BCforward:

Founded in 1998 on the idea that industry leaders needed a professional service, and workforce management expert, to fuel the development and execution of core business and technology strategies, BCforward is a Black-owned firm providing unique solutions supporting value capture and digital product delivery needs for organizations around the world. Headquartered in Indianapolis, IN with an Offshore Development Center in Hyderabad, India, BCforward’s 6,000 consultants support more than 225 clients globally.

BCforward champions the power of human potential to help companies transform, accelerate, and scale. Guided by our core values of People-Centric, Optimism, Excellence, Diversity, and Accountability, our professionals have helped our clients achieve their strategic goals for more than 25 years. Our strong culture and clear values have enabled BCforward to become a market leader and best in class places to work.

BCforward is an equal opportunity employer.