New

Research Technician

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jan 08, 2026
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary Seeking a highly motivated and experienced Research Technician to help build, validate, and implement a state-of-the-art robotic assay platform at Caltech for high-throughput protein production and biochemical and cell-based assays. The successful candidate will also participate in scientific assay development, technical data management, and operational support for the automated protein library production and assay laboratory, including assessing and maintaining quality control and reliable test assay workflows. Essential Job Duties Assist in building automation platform enclosures. Participate in: Engineering support and method development of automated workflows and platforms. Providing assay development, assay quality control, and troubleshooting. Training and supervising automation platform end-users. Coordinating the ordering, processing, and restocking of lab supplies and equipment, and maintaining the general organization of the lab. Maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing laboratory equipment and/or instruments. Applying scientific knowledge of policies, practices, and protocols and/or sound engineering practices to assignments of moderate complexity. Understanding and applying working knowledge of Caltech operations, strategies, and scientific concepts. Basic Qualifications Enrolled in or completed a BS in biological, biochemical, or chemical sciences, or a related field. Mid-level computer skills, including familiarity with Excel formulas and assay data interpretation and visualization. Strong communication skills (both oral and electronic) and organizational skills. Problem-solving and service-oriented skills. Strong willingness to learn new skills when needed. Highly motivated, responsible, and proactive working style. Strong skills in building and working in a cohesive lab team. Mission dedicated. Preferred Qualifications BS preferred in biological, biochemical, or chemical sciences, or related field. Relevant lab experience for at least 1 or 2 years is preferred. 1 or more years of experience, including familiarity with plate-based biochemical, nucleic acid-based, or cell-based assays. Familiarity with automated liquid handling platforms and automated assay development. Strong basic computer literacy, including some basic programming skills, preferably VBA/VB.NET in the MS Excel context, Arduino, 3D Printing, and CAD 3D modeling software (Fusion 360, Solidworks, Vention). Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $19.00 - $28.00 Per Hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.