Entry Level Lab Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Announcement
Details
Open Date
04/30/2026
Requisition Number
PRN17017N
Job Title
Laboratory Technicians
Working Title
Laboratory Technicians
Career Progression Track
S00
Track Level
S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level Support
FLSA Code
Nonexempt
Patient Sensitive Job Code?
No
Type
Non Benefited Staff / Student
Temporary?
Yes
Standard Hours per Week
19
Full Time or Part Time?
Part Time
Shift
Day
Work Schedule Summary
Is this a work study job?
No
VP Area
U of U Health - Academics
Department
00219 - Neurobiology Research
Location
Campus
City
Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment
External Posting
Pay Rate Range
Close Date
08/04/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to join the Mills Lab in a junior Lab Technician role. Our team uses cutting edge tools such as UCLA miniscopes, Neuropixels probes, and optogenetics to record and manipulate neural circuits in vivo. We combine these techniques with computational analysis of behavior to uncover circuit-level mechanisms underlying motivated behaviors. Visit our lab website for more information: www.themillslab.com
As a technician, you will play an important role conducting experimental research and assisting with laboratory operations. The position offers a unique opportunity to work on innovative neuroscience projects while also taking on responsibilities related to lab management, equipment maintenance, and supply ordering. This is an ideal position for preparing for future graduate studies.
Experienced candidates may also apply to the lab for a Research Specialist role https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/201190
Responsibilities
Disclaimer: This job description outlines the general nature of work performed and is not exhaustive in listing all duties and qualifications required.
Responsibilities• Collaborate with senior laboratory personnel to plan and execute neuroscience research experiments.
• Perform a variety of experimental techniques, including stereotaxic injections and probe implantation, in vivo imaging, and behavioral testing in mice.
• Conduct brain tissue processing, fixation, and microscopy.
• Analyze and interpret research data, preparing reports summarizing results.
• Manage laboratory supplies, including ordering and stocking materials and equipment.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and safe laboratory environment, including disinfecting and equipment maintenance.
• Assist in the care of research animals and colony maintenance.
Problem SolvingIn this role, you will use your independent judgment and knowledge of scientific techniques to address research challenges. You may also collaborate with senior researchers to find solutions to complex scientific problems.
Work Environment• Office environment (often).
• Exposure to laboratory hazards (often), including chemicals and infectious materials.
• Exposure to animals (often).
Physical Requirements• Hearing, listening, and talking (nearly continuously).
• Repetitive hand motion, walking, standing, and sitting (often).
• Bending and reaching overhead (seldom).
Minimum Qualifications• Bachelor's degree in a life sciences discipline with a preference for a specialization in Neuroscience.
• Two or more years of experience in a wet lab research setting.
• Excellent organizational abilities and experience in laboratory management, including ordering supplies and maintaining research spaces.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate with senior laboratory personnel.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Laboratory Technician, I: Requires little to no related experience.
Laboratory Technician, II: Requires at least 1 year of related experience.
Preferences
Preferred Qualifications• Two or more years of full-time experience in a wet lab research setting.
• Proficiency in rodent handling, survival surgery (stereotaxic injections), behavioral testing, and histology.
• Skills in data analysis, preferably experience with MATLAB or Python programming languages.
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
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