Lab Assistant - Histology

Job Overview

Perform basic laboratory and record-keeping tasks. Support the functions of the in-life, necropsy and formulation/analytical groups.

• Wash and dry glassware and distribute to appropriate locations within the laboratory. Keep glass-washing area clean and organized.
• May sterilize glassware and other items using an autoclave.
• Label collection tubes and perform laboratory set-up/clean-up (e.g., dusting, mopping floors, emptying & filling feed jars, etc).
• Perform basic husbandry duties such as liner changes or filling of feed jars.
• Verify and record the temperature of assigned refrigerators or freezers.
• Assist in the archiving of study-specific samples (e.g., back-up formulations, biological liquids or animal tissues).
• Assist in preparing for animal arrivals. This may include preparing cages (attaching water lines, feed jars, cage tag holders), ensuring sippers work, ensuring cages are appropriate for species being housed and placing cage tags on the holders.
• Process biological samples (e.g., plasma, serum, whole blood, urine, etc.) for possible analysis.
• Assist technical personnel with clerical duties (e.g., filing, making copies, cage tags, etc.).
• Monitor and maintain inventory and stock assigned areas (e.g., PPE Stations, first aid boxes).
• May record observations and measurements for basic lab/research tasks (e.g., behavioral evaluations).
• Handle, restrain, and transfer small to medium size animals from one location to another.
• Operate basic lab equipment and perform routine maintenance as needed.
• Perform limited troubleshooting and calibration of instruments as appropriate for assigned area.
• May be responsible for preparing simple lab solutions (e.g., buffers, media/common vehicles, bleach, and eye wash).
• May generate reports, master data sheets, forms and hand record data.
• Perform all tasks in compliance with Good Laboratory Practice Regulations (GLPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Transport supplies to multiple buildings via company vehicles (truck, golf cart or car). (items such as test articles, bio‑hazard boxes, dry ice, reagents, etc.).
• Perform all other related duties as assigned.

The pay for this position is between $18.00 - $21.00/hour. Salaries vary within the range based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, certifications, and location.

• Education:
  
  High school diploma or General Education Degree (G.E.D.).
• Experience:
  
  None. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute.
• Certification/Licensure:
  Must have a valid, state‑issued driver’s license.
• Must be detail‑oriented and have general familiarity with lab procedures.
• Good verbal communication skills required.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with Microsoft Office software.

Benefits may include bonus/incentives based on performance, 401K, paid time off, stock purchase program, health and wellness coverage, employee and family wellbeing programs, and work‑life balance flexibility.

Charles River is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, family status, pregnancy, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

It is unlawful in some states (including Massachusetts) to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.