Laboratory Assistant

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 32 countries, we offer customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods.

About the role

We are looking for a Laboratory Assistant in Crete, IL. Your mission will be to provide basic assistance to the operations of the laboratory and maintain a sterile and safe work environment.

Responsibilities

• Maintain clean laboratory by discarding waste and cleaning and sanitizing countertops, walls, floors, shelves, equipment, sinks, water baths, etc. using cleaning solvents.
• Maintain clean laboratory by properly storing chemicals, reagents, and supplies; maintain adequate stock of these materials.
• Clean and decontaminate equipment, glassware, metal instruments, sinks, water baths, tables, and test panels using solvents, water, acetone bath, cloth, hot-air drier, brushes, and rags.
• Prepare and use cleaning solutions according to specifications.
• Perform quality control checks such as temperature checks, balance verification, or detergent residue testing as required by department leadership.
• Assist other laboratory personnel performing testing procedures as instructed by department leadership.
• Maintain equipment, supplies, and instrumentation in working order to perform necessary preventative maintenance for operating departments.
• Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) required to complete job responsibilities.
• Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process.
• Ensure a safe working environment for the laboratory.
• Participate in audits.
• Maintain inventory, rotate supply, discard expired dry, refrigerated, and frozen materials, and retain as directed by department leadership.
• Complete assigned tasks under supervision of department leadership while working with the team to accomplish department goals.
• Perform opening and closing duties as assigned by department leadership.
• Clean glassware and other containers and return to laboratory for use.
• Other related duties as assigned.
• Behave and operate in an ethical and Code of Conduct compliant manner at all times.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to follow specific instructions.
• General knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to enter and process client data.
• Analytical skills to complete analysis procedures and determine the concentration of microorganisms or analytes.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and practices to ensure a safe working environment.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively work within teams.
• Occasional operation of a company vehicle, requiring safe driving skills.
• Physical dexterity for manipulating samples.

Skills

• Attention to Detail: Ensuring cleanliness, proper storage, and accurate maintenance of laboratory equipment and supplies to uphold safety and quality standards.
• Knowledge of Laboratory Procedures and Safety: Understanding proper cleaning, decontamination, and safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment and comply with regulations.
• Organizational and Time Management Skills: Efficiently managing inventory, completing tasks within designated timeframes, and supporting team operations smoothly.
• Maintaining a Clean and Safe Laboratory Environment: Consistently ensuring cleanliness and safety protocols are followed to prevent contamination and hazards.

Work Environment

The incumbent works in a laboratory with proper lighting and temperature control. Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals, and materials will occur. The role involves:

• Working near autoclaves and washers with increased temperatures.
• Wearing masks, laboratory coats, and insulated gloves when working with media.
• Frequent lifting of up to 50 pounds when loading and preparing samples.
• Extended time spent in a standing position.
• Infrequent time spent in a motor vehicle for sample pick-up and delivery purposes.

Pay

$16.50 hourly USD

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.
• Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.

Why Join Us?

• Contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose, supported by long-term and visionary shareholders.
• Impact strategic pillars built on 60 years of experience and expertise.
• Be part of a community of enthusiastic and skilled professionals who collaborate to serve a greater purpose.
• Join a diverse and open-minded environment that values individuality and differences.
• Grow within an international group of over 10,000 team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share.