LAUREL VALLEY FARMS
Laurel Valley Farms is a southeastern Pennsylvania–based agriculture, manufacturing, and environmental solutions company built on scale, innovation, and long-term stewardship. As North America’s largest single-site mushroom substrate composter, we produce the foundation for millions of pounds of fresh mushrooms each year while continuing to expand into new markets that support sustainable growth.
At Laurel Valley, we believe strong products start with strong processes and strong people. Our team combines deep industry experience, quality-focused production, customer-first service, and reliable logistics to make soil and compost solutions a trusted part of every project. For driven employees, this is an opportunity to help grow a business that is practical, entrepreneurial, and rooted in a larger mission: building better soils, stronger landscapes, and more sustainable communities.
LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
Position Summary
The Laboratory Technician is responsible for processing compost and raw material samples in a timely and accurate manner, generating reliable data, and providing results to the appropriate team members. This role supports day-to-day laboratory operations through accurate data entry, supply tracking, routine equipment maintenance, lab cleanliness, and safety meeting documentation.
Reports To: Phase I Manager
Key Responsibilities
- Receive and run compost and raw material samples in a timely manner.
- Generate accurate sample data and communicate results to the appropriate personnel.
- Enter sample results into the correct corresponding database.
- Monitor laboratory supplies and place orders as needed to maintain adequate inventory.
- Perform routine maintenance on all the equipment, escalating issues that require additional support or specialized service.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory workspace.
- Serve as recorder for safety meetings, documenting meeting notes and action items as assigned.
Qualifications
Required:
· Ability to follow established laboratory procedures and complete work accurately.
· Strong attention to detail when running samples, recording results, and entering data.
· Ability to use Microsoft Excel for recordkeeping, sort sample results, and make basic charts.
· Operate computer programs that connect directly to lab tools like pH meters, scales and spectrometers.
· Good organizational skills for managing supplies, workspace cleanliness, and routine tasks.
· Ability to recognize equipment issues and request support when needed.
· Clear communication skills for sharing data and coordinating with team members.
Preferred:
· Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, Chemistry, Biology, or Food Science.
· 1-3 years of experience working in a laboratory, agricultural, composting, environmental, or materials testing setting.
· Experience using and maintaining NIR spectroscopy.
· Experience with data entry, sample tracking, or laboratory recordkeeping.
· Familiarity with basic wet chemistry techniques
Reporting and Coordination
The Laboratory Technician coordinates with team members who require sample results and supports safety meeting documentation as assigned. Equipment concerns, supply needs, and unusual sample or data issues should be communicated to the appropriate supervisor or designated contact.
Work Environment
This position is performed primarily in a laboratory environment and will involve handling compost, raw material samples, lab supplies, and testing equipment. The employee is expected to follow safety procedures and maintain a clean and orderly workspace.
The employee may be exposed to varying weather conditions, and physically demanding tasks and occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds. Success in this role requires flexibility, sound judgment, strong attention to detail, and a consistent commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.
Laurel Valley Farms is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where employees can grow, contribute, and succeed.
Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
