Lab Technician

JOB SUMMARY

The Columbia R&D Operations Lab Support role is a hands‑on position within a professional laboratory environment, focused on supporting the cleaning, upkeep, and operational readiness of fermenter systems through routine cleaning and preventive maintenance activities. This role emphasizes adherence to safety standards and standard work documents to ensure reliable, compliant, and efficient lab operations. In addition to core equipment support, the position plays a key role in maintaining overall laboratory functionality by executing autoclave sterilization and validation cycles, supporting facilities operations, and ensuring proper inventory management and supply availability.

Success in this role requires strong teamwork and collaboration with cross‑functional partners, attention to detail, and a proactive commitment to fostering a safe, organized, and high‑performing laboratory environment.

• Clean and maintain laboratory glassware
• Perform thorough cleaning of fermenters (vessels and head plates)
• Clean and sanitize laboratory equipment
• Maintain general lab cleanliness to support a safe, organized, and compliant workspace
• Support routine preventive maintenance activities to ensure optimal equipment performance
• Perform tubing replacement as required
• Assist with seal assembly and impeller replacement
• Conduct pressure relief valve testing and replacement
• Perform probe calibration
• Execute sterilization cycles, perform validation of autoclave processes, and conduct kill‑run cycles to ensure effective decontamination and compliance with operational standards
• Partner with the Facilities team to perform routine inspections and reconcile stockroom inventory, ensuring accuracy, organization, and operational readiness
• Restock laboratory supplies to maintain appropriate inventory levels
• Support bulk autoclave cycles as needed
• Assist with consumables ordering and inventory tracking
• Perform additional duties as assigned based on operational needs

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours)
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and standard work documents

• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to SOPs
• Attention to detail and ability to follow standardized processes
• Teamwork and collaboration across departments
• Organizational skills and ability to maintain a clean, efficient work environment
• Reliability and proactive approach to supporting lab operations