Job Description
Description
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ : CENT and CENTA), is a leading innovator, marketer and producer of quality branded products for the pet, lawn and garden supplies markets. The Central Life Sciences (CLS) business unit is dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and the protection of companion animals, economic animals, plants, stored grains, and the environment from damaging pests. We are seeking a Product Development Lab Technician to work full-time, on-site in our Dallas, Texas laboratory.
This position will provide technical support and assistance to senior members of the Product Development department. It is a support function role to encompass many facets from conducting bioassays, collecting data, organizing supplies and equipment, cleaning & maintaining laboratory, assist in insect rearing, and participate in field work. The candidate must be willing to frequently conduct laboratory work with various arthropods such as roaches, fleas, ticks, and flies. Work will include touching, counting, and moving arthropods and cleaning arthropod rearing containers.Please visit our websites for additional information;www.central.com and www.centrallifesciences.com KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide general assistance and technical support to department staff
- Attention to detail in conducting bioassays, following protocols, and SOPs
- Write and archive reports of test results
- Provide / generate efficacy data as needed for support of new label claims for existing products
- Maintain laboratory and associated equipment. Assist the insectary manager when needed
- Provide intra-departmental support when needed
- The position involves the occasional operation of equipment. Physical exertion commensurate to the operation of such equipment and ability to move as much as 50 pounds of materials are requisite
QUALIFCATIONS
Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writingAbility to use and operate laboratory equipment and instruments (balances, mixing equipment, and laboratory glassware). Ability and willingness to learn about operation of laboratory, insectary, and other equipmentMathematical skills in calculation are paramountAbility to observe phenomena, analyze their significance, correlate their parameters, interpret their meaning, and based thereon to recommend further action or directionThe highest degree of integrity and discretion is demandedStandard procedures must be carefully followed in working with potentially hazardous equipment and chemicalsAppreciation for safe handling of flammable liquids, compressed gases, and chemicals is requiredOccasional travel may be requiredMINIMUM EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
Masters degree in a scientific discipline such as entomology or biology with emphasis in urban, agricultural, or medical / veterinary entomology is preferred.BS in a scientific discipline such as entomology or biology with emphasis in urban, agricultural, or medical / veterinary entomology with 2-3 years work experienceWORKING CONDITIONS Work hours are divided between office, laboratory, and on-location field sites. Safety apparel is required in the lab or production areas, i.e. safety glasses (always), lab coat, gloves, respirators or dust masks (as appropriate). BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS :
Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceFree Life and Disability InsuranceHealth and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts401k with 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contributionPaid vacation, holidays and sick timeEmployee Assistance ProgramAccess to thousands of free online coursesDiscounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications)Referral Program with cash bonusAccess to on-demand payPaid parental leaveWe are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. #LI-CM1