Laboratory Assistant

About the role

We are looking for a Laboratory Assistant in 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, North Building, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to:

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, and cloth or hot-air drier, brushes, and rags, etc.
• 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.
• Absorb and 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) that is required to complete job responsibilities.
• Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process.
• Ensure a safe working environment for laboratory.
• Participate in audits.
• Maintain inventory, rotate supply, discard expired dry, refrigerated and frozen materials and retain as directed by department leadership.
• Completes assigned tasks under supervision of department leadership, while working with team to accomplish department goals.
• Perform opening and closing duties as assigned department leadership.
• Clean glassware and other containers and return to laboratory for use.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Entry-level position.
• The position requires the ability to follow specific instructions.
• A general knowledge of the Laboratory Information Management System is required to enter client data.
• The incumbent may be required to operate company vehicle that would require the skill to operate a motor vehicle and exhibit safe driving skills.
• Analytical skills are essential to complete analysis procedures and determine the concentration of the microorganism or analyte.
• A general knowledge of the Laboratory Information Management System is required to process client data.
• Physical dexterity is required for manipulating samples.
• A basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and practices is required to ensure a safe working environment.
• Interpersonal skills are required to effectively work within teams.
• Communication: The incumbent has occasional contact with the personnel outside the immediate working unit.

Success Factors / Job Competencies

• 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: Works in a laboratory with proper lighting and temperature control. Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals, and materials will occur when in the laboratory. The incumbent works in a laboratory with increased temperatures near the autoclave and washer. The incumbent is required to wear masks, laboratory coat and insulated gloves when working with media. Frequent lifting of up to 50 pounds is necessary when loading and preparing samples. The incumbent can expect extended time spent in a standing position. The incumbent may spend infrequent time in a motor vehicle for sample pick up and delivery purposes.

Compensation and Benefits

• Compensation: $16.50 hourly USD
• Full Time Eligible
• Benefits Overview: 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?

• To contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose, supported by long-term and visionary shareholders.
• To have an impact on our strategic pillars that build on 60 years of experience and expertise.
• To be part of a community of an enthusiastic and skilled group of people who love co-building together and serving a purpose bigger than them.
• To be welcome as you are, in a diverse and open-minded environment that is rich in our singularities and differences.
• To grow in an international group of more than 10,000 fantastic team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share.