Seasonal Laboratory Assistant
June-October 2026 | Starting at $20/hour
Summary
The Laboratory Assistant engages in wheat testing and technical support of projects and research under the supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor. 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 2026 (end date negotiable)
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assists Laboratory Supervisor and Laboratory Technicians with 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 & 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:
- Hourly position, $20/hour
How to Apply
Send resume and cover letter to info@wmcinc.org with “Lab Assistant Position” in the subject line.
Deadline to apply is Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
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.