Entry Level Lab Technician

About the role

This entry-level role supports a busy microbiology laboratory by preparing samples and materials for analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmental samples. The technician performs pre-prep and sample preparation tasks for higher-level laboratory staff, follows approved microbiological techniques and methodologies, and helps maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work area in a fast-paced testing environment. This is a Contract position based out of San Antonio, TX.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for analytical microbiological and chemistry testing of food products, ingredients, and environmental samples.
• Perform media and sample prep work to support technicians, including enrichment and gravimetric dilution procedures.
• Handle client samples in accordance with approved microbiological techniques and methodologies when assigned to prep activities.
• Apply aseptic techniques consistently, including changing gloves between samples to prevent cross contamination.
• Maintain media and reagents by preparing, labeling, and organizing materials as required for daily testing.
• Clean and sanitize work areas and glassware to support a safe and contamination-free laboratory environment.
• Perform basic quality control monitoring, such as recording incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, and running media controls.
• Potentially perform plating activities under guidance and according to established protocols.
• Receive, organize, and process samples efficiently to support fast turnaround times in a high-volume laboratory.
• Follow all laboratory procedures, safety guidelines, and documentation requirements with attention to detail.
• Collaborate with higher-level technicians and other team members to ensure smooth workflow and timely completion of testing.
• Consistently demonstrate reliability by showing up on time, completing assigned tasks, and maintaining productivity in a fast-paced setting.

Skills

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Ability to perform media prep, enrichment, and gravimetric dilution following established protocols.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in handling samples and recording information.
• Capability to follow written procedures and approved methodologies for analytical testing.
• Comfort with routine cleaning and sanitation of work areas and glassware.
• Basic quality control awareness, including monitoring incubator temperatures and running media controls.
• Reliable work ethic, including consistent attendance and willingness to support higher-level technicians.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $17.00 - $17.00/hr.

Benefits

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan (Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available)
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)