Molecular Diagnostician

Position Overview

The Davey Institute Plant Diagnostic Laboratory

Location: Davey Tree SEED Campus, Kent, Ohio
Learn more about the SEED Campus here: https://www.davey.com/about/seed-campus/

The Davey Tree Expert Company seeks a full-time diagnostician to support the Davey Institute’s Diagnostic Laboratory. The Davey Tree Expert Company is the North American leader in residential tree care, utility right-of-way management, commercial landscape services, and urban forestry / natural resource consulting with operations throughout the US and Canada. The Davey Institute is responsible for research and development, environmental programs, technical support, and education and training for all of Davey’s North American operations.

This position is on-site daily in Kent, Ohio.

Job Duties

• Molecular diagnostic techniques with a focus on expanding current testing capabilities.
• Molecular testing design and troubleshooting of DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis protocols.
• Plant problem diagnoses to include insects, mites, diseases, and abiotic disorders of ornamental plants and turfgrass.
• Write formal reports and management recommendations based on diagnosis.
• Process and track plant and soil samples from the beginning of the process (assign a tracking and identification number) to the end (report writing and disposal).
• Support the lab with administration and organization responsibilities including cleaning, file organization, equipment maintenance, data collection, and data entry.
• Assist with lab tours and hosted events.
• Provide and assist with staff training.
• Assist with field and lab research as necessary.

Qualifications

Required:

• B.S. or M.S. in biology, botany, entomology, environmental science, horticulture, molecular biology, plant pathology, or related field.
• Strong knowledge and experience with molecular techniques including DNA extraction, PRC, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing preparation.
• Experience with lab equipment and techniques including culturing and identification of plant pathogens using microscopy, ELISA, PCR, or other molecular methods.
• Knowledge of botany, plant pathology, entomology (diseases, insects, and abiotic disorders of plants).
• Computer literacy and proficiency with Microsoft programs (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel).
• Reliable means to commute to work in Kent, Ohio.

Desired:

• Experience with LAMP and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and /or Digital PCR (dPCR).
• Experience with turfgrass pests and diseases.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail.

Additional Information

We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology, and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience for employees at all levels.

• Group health plans*
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance*
• Life insurance*
• Paid parental leave
• 401k with up to a 4% company match**
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan: opportunity to buy company stock at a 15% discount
• Holidays and paid time off*
• Payroll savings plan*
• Charitable matching gift program*
• Employee referral bonus program *
• Employee Educational Scholarship*
• Davey Family Scholarship*
• 20% discount on all Davey services*
• Cell phone discounts*
• Vehicle purchase discount program*
• Plus, so much more!

*All listed benefits available to eligible employees on Day 1.

**Union employees are not eligible for 401k but may be eligible to join pension plans negotiated by local union.

Divisional Overview