AGNEMA, LLC Analytical Analysis Lab Technician Pasco, WA · Full time

Apply for Analytical Analysis Lab Technician

AGNEMA is a plant pathology and analytical laboratory that provides testing services to growers, ag companies, universities, research and consulting companies, environmental, and government agencies. We test soil, water, and plant materials to detect diseases, parasites, plant pathogens, analytes, and soil health properties.

The main responsibilities of this role are primarily routine, protocol driven tasks. Tasks are expected to be performed with a high level of autonomy. You will perform both general and technical lab duties which primarily include, but are not limited to:

 

Core Tasks and Responsibilities

Evaluates soil, water, plant tissue, and seed samples to help growers optimize crop yields, manage fertilizers, and protect environmental health. The technician prepares samples, operates analytical instruments, maintain instruments, and validates data for quality control.

• Sample Preparation: Receive, log, dry, grind, and sieve agricultural samples (soil, plant, seed) so they are homogeneous and ready for testing.
• Chemical Analysis: Perform extractions and titrations to measure key properties such as elements, pH, EC, and organic matter.
• Instrument Operation: Run tests using specialized laboratory machinery—such as ICP spectrometers, DA, and CNS for nutrient analysis (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and chromatographs for pesticide residue.
• Data Management: Record, process, and validate analytical data to ensure accuracy and compliance with agricultural or environmental standards.
• Equipment Maintenance: Calibrate, clean, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment to maintain optimal performance and avoid testing delays
• Reporting: Provide detailed raw data to the analysts for preparing reports and charts on test results to help agronomists and growers make informed crop management decisions. 

 

Requirements

Personal Quality: adaptability, followed closely by curiosity and resilience; Learning Fast, Solving Problems, Connecting with Others.

Education: A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemistry, Soil Science, or a closely related life science; a minimum of 5 years in a direct analytical laboratory technician position with vocational certified training would be considered an equivalent qualification.

Experience: Minimum 5 years hands-on experience with laboratory techniques, sample preparation, and equipment maintenance is highly preferred.

Analytical Techniques: Ability to prepare samples and perform chemical, biological, or physical tests (e.g., nitrogen determination, soil organic carbon, pH levels).

Math & Science: Strong foundational math and statistics to calculate ratios, dilutions, and preparing lab reports.

Computer Proficiency: Competency with Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and specialized Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

High Detail Orientation: Extreme precision when observing, recording, and inputting data to prevent inaccurate or inconclusive results.

Certifications

While not mandatory for entry roles, pursuing certifications demonstrates career dedication:

Certified Crop Adviser (CCA): Available through the American Society of Agronomy or Science Societies.

Soil Science Certifications: Programs like the Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) via the Soil Science Society of America.