EarthOptics (recently merged with Pattern Ag) is an agricultural technology company leveraging advances in genomics, data science, and microbiology to help farmers improve the productivity and profitability of their land. By applying genomic analysis to farm soil, we unlock a wide range of predictive insights that help farmers optimize their spend on seed, crop protection, and fertility inputs. Combining these insights with the latest in digital sensing, data science, and machine learning, we are ushering in the era of predictive agriculture, powering on-farm decision making for millions of acres, and billions in crop spend.

Before soil samples are analyzed, they are blended and homogenized using an assembly line of custom-built machines. We are seeking a part-time, night shift lab technician to help operate this assembly line from 3 PM to 9 PM, Monday through Friday. This role involves repetitive tasks, similar to those in a manufacturing environment, and is essential to ensuring consistency and precision in our process. As part of a dynamic startup, you’ll also have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technologies and explore interdisciplinary approaches in a fast-paced, innovative setting.

This is a temporary, part-time position of 30 hours a week. Work is achieved during 6-hour work days, Monday through Friday and weekend days when necessary. Depending on volume, opportunities to work further hours may arise.

Start Date: Immediately upon completion of pre-hire requirements.

Duration: This a temporary position with an estimated end date of December 15. High-performing individuals with an interest in transitioning to permanent staff may have the opportunity.

Compensation: The hourly rate is 22.64

Responsibilities:

• Maintain a clean and organized work environment
• Maintain high throughput expectations
• Load custom soil processing machinery with soil samples to prepare them for analysis. Troubleshoot when possible.
• Operate soil slurry waste pipeline, including sump pumps and industrial agitators
• Close down lab at end of workday

Skills and Special Requirements:

• Ability to multitask and work consistently in a manufacturing environment
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lb
• Comfortable working with large volumes of soil and soil slurry
• Comfortable performing repetitive tasks
• Bonus: soil processing machinery is under development. The ideal candidate for this role will be comfortable with basic computer/IT troubleshooting, as well as using hand tools.

Required Experience:

• Ability to understand and follow experimental protocols and procedures.
• Having knowledge of laboratory safety guidelines.
• Associates degree in any technical field or high school diploma with 1 year of full time work experience.

Location: Emeryville, CA

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing duties of this job, will be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, stoop or kneel, and use fingers and hands.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work while standing for most of one’s shift
• Ability to work in a loud environment (PPE provided)
• Job will be performed in a lab environment.
• Dress is casual and Protective Personal Equipment is supplied as well as lab coats.

We're excited to review your application!