Molecular Laboratory Technician

MPG Ranch is hiring! We are seeking a MolecularLaboratory Technician to join our team located in Missoula, MT.

Pay starting at$28-31/hour, DOE. This is a full-time, year-round, non-exempt position. Candidates can start as early as November 2026.

The Laboratory Technician will work in close collaboration with PI Lorinda Bullington and other lab members on a variety of projects focusing on plant, microbe, and herbivore (from insects to large mammals) symbioses and how these interaction drive ecological processes in forest and grassland ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities

The successful applicant will:

Conduct standardized molecular assays including DNA extractions and PCR

Perform qualitative and quantitative analytical procedures according to established protocols with precision and accuracy, and in a timely and efficient manner

Coordinate field and laboratory logistics

Collect, organize, and maintain project data

Participate in general lab maintenance and purchasing

Depending on aptitude and interest, opportunities exist for bioinformatics, data analysis, manuscript writing, and co-authorship on peer-reviewed scientific journal articles

Driving to field sites in the region will be expected. Some degree of remote work is possible, though the majority will be in person.

The ideal candidate:

Has a bachelor's degree or higher in related field (e.g., Microbiology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Biological Science, Conservation Science).

Must be highly organized, with a close attention to detail.

Can work well both independently and with others, and is interested in being trained new skills and techniques as needed.

Can express ideas clearly and concisely in oral, written, and graphical form and has experience with Microsoft Office. Familiarity with bioinformatics, statistics, and R is a plus.

Benefits

Paid time off is accrued at the end of each pay period based on actual hours worked, starting on the employee's initial date of hire.

Benefits generally include worker's compensation coverage, health, dental, and vision coverage, as well as Simple IRA contributions.

To apply for this position, please send 1) a brief cover letter describing your relevant experience and reason for interest in the position 2) contact information for 3 referees, and 3) a detailed CV in PDF format describing education and work experience. Referees will be contacted after an initial applicant review. The subject of the email should read '2026 Lab Technician application'.

MPG Ranch is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual

orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, marital status,

or other applicable legally protected characteristics. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability please contact us

at the email above.