Career Opportunities

Full-Time Laboratory Technician

October 2025 | Starting at $20/hour

Summary

The Laboratory Technician supports wheat testing and technical projects by conducting laboratory analyses, assisting with crop quality sample collection, supporting technical courses, and contributing to tours and demonstrations. This role requires prior laboratory experience, though not necessarily in cereal science, and offers opportunities to grow into a salaried position.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Perform wheat and flour analytical tests by following established procedures for testing, data collection, and reporting.
  • Track samples by receiving, logging, and storing them appropriately for analyses or storage.
  • Maintain clean, organized laboratory workspaces.
  • Document and track lab supplies, cooler inventory, and general consumables.
  • Maintain calibration records and ensure proper functioning of lab equipment.
  • Assist with visiting groups and tours, including demonstrations.
  • Support the AACCI check sample program by blending, packing, and shipping monthly samples.
  • Contribute to research projects by assisting technical staff in the Bake Lab and Pilot Scale Lines (Cracker Line, Asian Noodle Line, Tortilla Line).
  • Participate in the Crop Quality Process.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

  • Previous laboratory experience required; cereal science experience preferred but not necessary.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills, with attention to detail in record keeping and documentation.
  • Ability to perform repetitive tasks with accuracy and consistency.
  • Capable of working independently as well as collaboratively on a team.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to suggest process improvements.
  • Must have legal authorization to work in the U.S.

Other Position Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods in a laboratory setting.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • No wheat or flour allergies.

Compensation 

Starting at $20/hour, full-time hourly with potential to become a salaried position

Seasonal Laboratory Assistant

(position has been filled) June 2025 Starting at | $20/hour

Summary

The Laboratory Assistant engages in wheat testing and technical support of projects and research under the supervision of the Operations Manager. This role will work with WMC Laboratory Technicians during the crop quality season (early July to end of September) to meet deadlines and project goals. In addition, the seasonal Laboratory Assistant provides support for technical courses and facility tours on an as-needed basis. This is an hourly position, offering flexibility in working hours based on the needs of assigned tasks and supervisor’s direction. Upon completion of the Crop Quality Survey season and the needs of the organization, full time permanent employment is possible.

Employment Duration

  • June to October (End date negotiable)

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Assists Operations Manager and Laboratory Technicians for wheat and flour analytical tests
  • Supports the research project process including assisting the technical team in the Bake Lab and Pilot Scale Lines (Cracker Line, Asian Noodle Line, Tortilla Line)
  • Supports the Crop Quality Process
    • Crop quality supply preparation (e.g., labels, sample bags)
    • Precise and accurate handling of data and wheat samples
    • Daily wheat quality laboratory testing
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Skills

  • Enrolled in a Science or Food Science/Agriculture program
  • College Junior level or higher or graduate student
  • Previous laboratory experience preferred but not required
  • Must possess a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Must be reliable and prompt
  • Must have legal status to work in the U.S.
  • Strong work ethic; ability to work independently as well as in a team setting

Other Position Requirements

  • Standing for long periods of time in a laboratory
  • Ability to lift 50lbs
  • A valid driver’s license
  • No wheat or flour allergies

Compensation 

$20/hour

How to Apply

  • Cover letter
  • Resume

WMC is located in Northwest Portland in the Pearl District, is accessible by public transportation, and free parking is also available. Applicants are expected to work within the days & times of Monday thru Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm.

This position is temporary and does not include employee benefits, except as required by law. All WMC employees are “at will.”

Wheat Marketing Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are made in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, handicap, military or veteran status or any other legally protected status.