Lab Technician

Lab Technician Position in Fresno, CA

The Lab Technician plays a key role in supporting complex microbiological studies and procedures within a food microbiology laboratory operating under Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) conditions. This position focuses on producing accurate, traceable, and defendable results while working with a variety of organisms, including pathogens and spore crops. The Lab Technician collaborates closely with microbiologists and other laboratory staff, contributes to experiment execution, and helps maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.

Responsibilities:

• Use proper handling procedures and aseptic techniques to ensure the integrity and safety of all microbiological work.
• Assist with the setup, scheduling, preparation, and execution of complex studies and procedures in accordance with GLP conditions.
• Produce accurate, traceable, and defendable results within established timelines and quality standards.
• Work with and maintain a variety of organisms, including pathogens and spore crops, following appropriate safety and handling protocols.
• Assist microbiologists in conducting experiments and support the design and execution of microbiological studies.
• Conduct experiments and studies that may involve Clostridium botulinum, adhering to all relevant safety and procedural guidelines.
• Perform routine and non-routine laboratory tasks under general supervision to ensure supervisor and client satisfaction.
• Carry out microbial transfers using aseptic techniques to prevent contamination and ensure reliable results.
• Perform microbial identification and enumeration techniques to support food microbiology analyses.
• Accurately prepare media and reagents required for microbiological testing and experimental work.
• Pour plates, perform serial dilutions, and carry out pipetting procedures with precision and consistency.
• Conduct microscopic observations, including direct microscopic counts, gram stains, and wet mounts.
• Operate necessary laboratory equipment as required for assigned projects, ensuring correct and safe usage.
• Maintain instruments and equipment so they remain continuously in good working order, including routine checks and basic maintenance.
• Identify and communicate equipment and facility improvement opportunities or issues to the supervisor in a timely manner.
• Maintain a safe and orderly work environment by following laboratory safety practices and housekeeping standards.
• Maintain good working communication with all staff to support effective teamwork and information sharing.
• Follow appropriate standard operating procedures (SOPs) and protocols as instructed by the supervisor.
• Maintain detailed, accurate laboratory and experimental records to ensure data traceability and compliance.
• Work as a team member with all staff to accomplish position objectives and broader business goals.
• Assist in training or mentoring laboratory staff as needed, sharing knowledge of methods and best practices.
• Troubleshoot laboratory methods, equipment issues, and nonconforming results to help maintain quality and reliability.
• Perform other laboratory-related tasks as assigned to support ongoing projects and operational needs.

Essential

Skills:

• Associates degree in a scientific discipline; a Bachelors degree is preferred.
• At least 4 years of food microbiology laboratory experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in independently performing routine and complex microbiological analyses.
• Strong practical knowledge of aseptic techniques and proper handling procedures for microbiological work.
• Experience working with a variety of organisms, including pathogens and spore crops, in a laboratory setting.
• Ability to accurately perform microbial transfers, identification, and enumeration techniques.
• Hands-on…