Job Description

Position Number: 22160971
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: [[postingEndDate]]
Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351
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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.

Hiring manager

Alex Johnston

alex.johnston@arkansas.gov

Position Information

Job Series: Laboratory – Career Path

Classification: Laboratory Technician II

Class Code: SLA05P

Pay Grade: SGS07

Salary Range: $57,351 - $84,879

The Laboratory Technician II is a mid-level technical position responsible for conducting standardized laboratory testing, preparing specimens, assisting in equipment maintenance, and supporting senior lab personnel. This role requires a solid foundation in laboratory practices, strong organizational skills, and the ability to follow protocols with accuracy. The technician works under general supervision and may assist with the training of entry-level staff.

Primary Responsibilities

Conduct routine tests and analyses on biological, chemical, environmental, or forensic samples using established protocols.
Prepare, label, and manage the handling and storage of laboratory specimens and reagents.
Record and interpret routine test results for review by senior technicians or scientists.
Operate and perform routine maintenance on laboratory instruments such as balances, centrifuges, pH meters, microscopes, or analyzers.
Accurately record test results and maintain logs in accordance with laboratory quality assurance standards.
Support chain-of-custody protocols when handling sensitive or forensic evidence.
Collaborate with Laboratory Technicians I and assist with their training and onboarding.
Support Laboratory Technician III and Scientists with data analysis, inventory control, and workflow prioritization.

Knowledge and Skills

Maintains precision and accuracy in sample preparation and result documentation.
Meets deadlines, follows schedules, and adheres to procedural requirements with consistency.
Clearly reports observations and issues to supervisors and colleagues.
Handles sensitive data and materials responsibly and confidentially.

Minimum Qualifications

At least two years 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.

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.