Entry-Level Laboratory Technician

About Us:

Join Hartz, where our love for pets drives everything we do. With over 95 years of commitment to pet care excellence, we are a trusted household name across the United States.  Innovation is at the heart of our mission as we continuously strive to provide products that nurture the special bond between pets and their owners, ensuring they experience nothing but Unconditional Love.

As leaders in the pet care industry, we are dedicated to pioneering advancements that enhance the well-being of pets, leading to happier, healthier, and longer lives.  Our success is fueled by the passion and dedication of our diverse team members, who bring their unique perspectives and talents to every aspect of our work.

We are committed to cultivating an inclusive and supportive work environment where individuals from all backgrounds and identities are valued and empowered to thrive.  At Hartz, your contributions matter, whether collaborating in the office or embracing the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement.  Together, we empower our employees and furry companions to make a meaningful impact within our company and beyond.  Join us in shaping the future of pet care and experience the joy of making a difference, one pet at a time. 

What We Offer …

• Hybrid Work Schedule: Enjoy flexibility with 3 days in-office and 2 days remote.
• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Receive a generous 401(k) match with immediate vesting.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Enjoy up to 34 paid days off annually, plus additional paid leaves. 
• Paid Parental Leave & Insurance: Company-paid parental leave, along with Life & Disability Insurance.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes Medical, Dental, Vision, Healthcare FSA, and Mental Health Assistance program (EAP).
• Tuition Reimbursement & Career Growth: Access to tuition reimbursement and other learning and development opportunities.
• Employee Perks: Volunteer opportunities, fun employee events, and more!

The Role …

 If working with insects excites you, this is your chance to turn that passion into a career. We’re seeking a motivated entry-level Laboratory Technician in Entomology to join our team. As an integral part of our Research and Development team, you will support the development and improvement of Animal Health pet products through in-vitro biological testing and laboratory research. You will play a key part in evaluating the performance of various product forms—such as sprays, topical drops, powders, collars, and shampoos—with a strong emphasis on accurate testing, data collection, and report generation.

Additionally, in this role, you’ll play a hands-on part in designing and carrying out pet panel studies, exploring how consumers perceive, prefer, and choose products. If you have a curious mind, an eye for detail, and enjoy working with others, you may be a great fit! Most importantly, you’ll bring genuine excitement for working with insects—whether studying them, handling them, or helping create innovative pet products that incorporate them. This is a chance to grow your skills, learn from experienced colleagues, and make a real impact in a unique and fascinating area of R&D.
 

This foundational role is ideal for individuals beginning their R&D careers, offering the opportunity to learn core lab operations, research processes, and contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects. This is a full-time non-exempt hourly position that is located at our Secaucus, NJ corporate headquarters, and has the flexibility to work a hybrid schedule.

Your Responsibilities …

Product Testing and Evaluation (50%) 

• Assist in conducting laboratory screening and testing of flea, tick and mosquito control products for dogs and cats, including evaluations of flea, tick and mosquito mortality, repellency, in-house flea IGR testing, and membrane feeding
• Assist in identifying new testing technologies applicable to evaluating the efficacy of pet products for controlling fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other parasites
• Assist in the development of in-vitro testing protocols to minimize the need for on-animal testing requirements
• Maintain sterile conditions and follow safety protocols to avoid contamination

Insect Research and Product Interaction (10%) 

• Study and research the characteristics of insects and their interaction with novel insecticides

 Consumer Research (25%)

• Collaborate with the Consumer Research team in the development of surveys and questionnaires that capture consumer thoughts, attitudes, and perceptions towards purchase preferences and usage behavior related to pet products

Project and Workflow Management (15%)

• Work effectively as part of a team and participate in team meetings
• Keep abreast of industry knowledge, standards, trends by attending conferences, industry meetings, and webinars

You’ll Need …

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Entomology, Zoology, or a related field
• Experience: Background in Entomology, with a solid understanding of insect biology. Practical experience working with fleas, ticks, and/or mosquitoes as well as pesticide products is preferred. Related internships, laboratory coursework, or other hands-on experience will be considered a strong plus. 
• Attention to Detail: Maintain high level of accuracy when completing tests and data collection
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills (written and oral)
• Independent and Team Collaboration Skills: Strong interpersonal skills with the demonstrated ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a team environment as needed
• Time Management Skills: Manage multiple experiments or research projects while meeting deadlines
• Software Proficiency: Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Travel: Willingness and ability to travel by car or plane as needed

Nice to Have …

• Regulations and Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP’s), and an understanding of the challenges working with government-regulated products
• Analytical Skills: Experience in statistical analysis

Physical Requirements …

• Standing/Sitting: Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while conducting experiments or working at a lab bench
• Manual Dexterity: Fine motor skills for handling small instruments, and delicate insect specimens
• Visual Acuity: Good vision (corrected or uncorrected) for observing insects, reading labels, and using microscopes
• Lifting/Carrying: Occasionally lift and carry lab supplies or equipment (typically under 25 lbs)
• Mobility: Ability to move between lab stations, storage areas, and possibly walk short distances within a facility
• Handling Insects: Comfort with handling insects in a controlled environment
• Allergen Awareness: No severe allergies to pets or insecticides, as exposure may occur
• Calm Demeanor: Ability to remain calm and focused around dogs and cats, especially during testing or observation
• Protective Gear: Ability to wear lab coats, gloves, and goggles