Laboratory Associate I

Hygiena provides rapid microbiology diagnostic tests and solutions for mission-critical, time-sensitive processes around the world. Our proprietary diagnostic technologies enable customers to prevent illness, save lives, comply with regulations, protect products and brands, and run businesses more effectively. Solutions are sold across a wide range of industries globally, with a core focus on food safety. Headquartered in Camarillo, California, with offices worldwide, we are actively seeking talented individuals to help grow the business.

About the role

This is a full-time, non-exempt Lab Associate I position based in Camarillo, CA.

Responsibilities

• Perform product final QC Testing on every product manufactured by following standard operating procedures and record QC test data on shared networks for review by team members and/or Supervisors.
• Repeat testing of products in the event of product failure or failed test results; work closely with R&D and Quality teams to identify the cause and remedy product issues.
• Review processes and collaborate with the Reagent Production Supervisor to resolve issues quickly and concisely.
• Perform Work in Process (WIP) Testing on products coming off the filling lines to confirm reagent solution performs as expected at the start of day.
• Prepare required reagents, instruments, and other equipment for WIP testing every morning; equilibrate specific products to room temperature and inform Quality and Production departments once ready to begin manufacturing.
• Retest products if they fail to meet required specifications and inform Production and Quality departments to halt operations.
• Document all stages of testing procedures to ensure accurate records, enabling quick assessment of results, issue resolution, and prevention of future problems.
• Test incoming raw materials, vendor-provided solutions, and customer-provided solutions per established assay protocols.
• Review assay results on the Incoming/Inspection record form for each raw material and complete tests before release and approval for use in Solution manufacturing.
• Provide Quality department with Incoming/Inspection reports for filing and easy accessibility in case of issues.
• Test all manufacturing environments to measure cleanliness levels of laboratories and filling rooms, including counters, tables, curtains, equipment, machines, and air quality.
• Calibrate air sampling machine, sterilize rotor, and ensure contact plates and air strips are available for monthly environmental testing.
• Document all environmental testing accurately and in real-time; provide test results to the Quality team and immediately report any results exceeding specified levels.
• Maintain a clean laboratory at all times and remove biowaste containers to designated waste disposal areas.
• Ensure compliance with all organizational systems, programs, training, policies, and procedures; follow relevant legal mandates and seek guidance as necessary.
• Actively support and participate in the safety program for self-protection and the protection of other employees by adhering to the Safety Manual and Injury Illness Prevention Program (IIPP).
• Carry out all responsibilities in an honest, ethical, and professional manner.
• Fulfill essential job functions in a consistent state of alertness and safe manner.
• Handle various duties as delegated by Supervisor or Manager.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related field, or equivalent education and work experience in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.
• Recent graduate and/or a minimum of 0-2 years of experience working in a laboratory or manufacturing environment, including knowledge of cGMP and aseptic technique.
• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Visio, PowerPoint) and Adobe Acrobat.

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Ability to use discretion and independent judgment.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to adapt to a constantly changing environment.
• Ability to lift/carry 40 pounds.

Why join us

• Teamwork as a core value: Our emphasis on teamwork and cross-functional communication enables us to build stronger bonds within our business.
• Be a part of something big: Hygiena plays a critical role in helping to prevent global health crises such as foodborne illness, healthcare-associated infections, and other outbreaks.
• Giving back to our communities: Hygiena supports local organizations committed to improving the lives of children and youth in our communities.

Benefits

• 15 days of PTO & 10 paid company holidays.
• Medical with HSA employer contribution, Dental, Vision (available 1st of the month after start date).
• Company-paid Life Insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability, and an Employee Assistance Program.
• 401(k) with Safe Harbor and Profit-Sharing employer contributions.
• Tuition Reimbursement program.
• Charitable Contribution matching.
• Employee Referral bonus opportunities.
• State-paid short-term disability for California-based employees.

Pay

$26.00/hourly (applicable to California).