Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

The Laboratory Technician supports high-quality scientific operations by strictly following laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs), accurately handling and processing biological samples, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. This role contributes directly to impactful scientific outcomes by preparing sequencing templates, assisting with PCR and related workflows, and communicating with internal teams and external customers in a professional and empathetic manner.

The position suits someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is highly detail oriented, and can consistently meet tight deadlines while understanding how their work fits into the broader goals of the laboratory.

Responsibilities:

• Strictly adhere to all laboratory SOPs, safety protocols, and site trainer instructions for training, sample handling, project processing, and documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, including regular bench cleaning and proper handling of equipment and materials.
• Receive and sort incoming biological samples accurately and efficiently to ensure proper tracking and processing.
• Prepare sequencing templates, including sample preparation, amplification, and PCR purification, following established protocols.
• Perform pipetting transfers, plating samples, and handling plasma and bacteria for PCR workflows using both manual and automated methods.
• Assist in purifying sequencing templates and load samples onto sequencing machines for overnight sequencing runs.
• Collect, handle, and package biohazardous and hazardous waste in accordance with safety and regulatory requirements.
• Use automation platforms as needed for sample processing and sequencing-related tasks.
• Document all work clearly and accurately, ensuring that records, logs, and reports meet GCP/GLP and internal quality standards.
• Communicate with customers and internal departments by email and phone in a friendly, professional, and timely manner to address questions and provide updates.
• Collaborate with team members across shifts to ensure smooth handoffs and continuity of operations in a fast-paced environment.
• Stand for prolonged periods as needed to complete laboratory tasks and meet daily throughput expectations, such as processing multiple plates per day.
• Work overtime, alternative shifts, and weekends when required, with advance notice, to support operational needs and sequencing schedules.
• Participate actively in training programs and accept feedback constructively to continuously improve performance and technical skills.

Essential

Skills:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ years of laboratory work experience preferred, including hands-on sample handling and processing.
• Ability to strictly follow SOPs, safety protocols, and detailed instructions.
• Proficiency with pipetting transfers and accurate liquid handling in a laboratory setting.
• Experience with documentation of laboratory activities, including accurate recordkeeping and data entry.
• Ability to plate samples and handle plasma and bacteria for PCR workflows.
• Familiarity with PCR, including preparation and handling of PCR reactions.
• Comfort working with both manual and automated laboratory processes and equipment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally by email and phone.
• Effective written communication skills for interacting with customers and internal teams.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy while working under tight deadlines.
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods and perform repetitive laboratory tasks.
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to collaborate across shifts and accept feedback constructively.

Additional Skills &

Qualifications:

• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or equivalent laboratory work experience preferred.
• Experience working in environments that follow Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards.
• Familiarity with biostorage operations, including handling freezers and chambers for sample storage.
• Experience with biologic samples and related handling requirements.
• Comfort working with automation platforms for sample processing and sequencing.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting while maintaining quality and compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to process multiple plates per day, with the capacity to increase throughput over time.
• Positive, team-focused approach with openness to coaching and performance feedback.

Work Environment:

The role is…