Assistant Technician

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Feb 26, 2025
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary Entry-level lab technician working with laboratory personnel to provide general lab stock and keep the lab clean. Maintain animal breeding colony. Reliability is a must; some responsibilities are time-critical. Essential Job Duties Must know sterile technique, tissue culture, and basic molecular biology (DNA preps, PCR). Make common lab solutions accurately: sterile filtered 20X PBS, sterile filtered 5X PBS, autoclaved LB agar, autoclaved LB broth, RPMI, Autoclaved MilliQ water. Autoclave dishes for sterile glassware. Keep weekly mouse inventory, working with postdocs on mouse breeding. Genotype mouse tail and ear samples: DNA purification, PCR reactions, restriction digests, gels, analysis. Work with animal facility staff to coordinate animal colony activities. LN2 dewar filling twice a week. Monitor CO2 tank levels for incubators. Clean/vacuum freezer vents weekly. General lab maintenance. Inventory of supplies and restock working stocks. Pick up and log receivables and packages. Work with lab manager for problem-solving. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in science. Some lab coursework and experience. Good communication skills. Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. Preferred Qualifications Experience with animals (mice) is a plus. Willing to learn new techniques from laboratory personnel. Reliable work schedule. Team player. Responsible and communicative. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $18.50 - $24.75 Per Hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.