Operations Floater

Laboratory Support Specialist

Sparks Group is seeking a detail-oriented and adaptable Laboratory Support Specialist for a 6-month contract assignment. In this versatile role, you will rotate across three primary coverage areas:
Order Processing, DNA Sample Preparation, and Contaminants Sample Preparation. You will play a critical role in maintaining accurate, timely, and compliant sample flow to support team workload peaks, planned absences, and ongoing operational needs.

• Contaminants Sample Prep:
  Perform sample preparation in compliance with approved methods, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and quality system standards.
• DNA Sample Prep:
  Handle, aliquot, set up extractions, label, and document DNA samples as trained while maintaining strict contamination-control practices.
• Laboratory Safety & Standards:
  Maintain clean, orderly work areas and consistently wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Front-Office & Logistics:
  Receive, log, label, prioritize, and distribute incoming laboratory samples.
• Accurately enter sample data into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Client Communication:
  Coordinate supplies, coolers, and subcontract shipments. Distribute time-sensitive reports and proactively communicate sample status updates or discrepancies to clients.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely records.
• Promptly escalate sample discrepancies, safety concerns, or quality issues to management.
• Additional tasks and duties as assigned.

• Education:
  
  High School Diploma or equivalent required; relevant scientific coursework preferred.
• Experience:
  
  Prior experience in a laboratory setting, sample handling, client service, or data entry preferred.
• Technical Proficiency:
  Basic computer literacy required, with preferred experience in Microsoft Office applications and LIMS (or other data-entry systems).
• Interpersonal & Communication
  
  Skills:
  
  Clear verbal and written communication, strong attention to detail, a customer-service orientation, and the ability to work effectively across multiple teams.
• Personal Attributes:
  Highly organized, dependable, punctual, and able to multitask, maintain confidentiality, and follow detailed work instructions.
• Core Aptitudes:
  Basic math skills for measurements, documentation, and inventory; sound reasoning ability to spot discrepancies and seek direction when work falls outside standard procedures.
• Language Proficiency:
  Ability to read and accurately interpret safety rules, procedures, work instructions, labels, and client documentation.
• Regular standing, walking, and repetitive use of hands/wrists.
• Close visual concentration for labeling, reading, and sample handling.
• Occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds.