Laboratory Assistant*

We are looking for a Laboratory Assistant in Salt Lake City, UT (1945 Fremont Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84104 USA).

About the role

The candidate is responsible for providing basic assistance to the operations of the laboratory, and for maintaining 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, 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.
• At all times, behave and operate in an ethical and Code of Conduct compliant manner.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Entry-level position; ability to follow specific instructions.
• General knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to enter and process client data.
• Ability to operate a company vehicle, including safe driving skills (may be required).
• Analytical skills to complete analysis procedures and determine concentration of microorganisms or analytes.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and practices to ensure a safe working environment.
• Physical dexterity for manipulating samples.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively work within teams.

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.

Physical Demands and 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

$18.00 - $21.00 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 mission 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 ample opportunities to learn and share.