Microbiology Sample Prep 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. The role is based in a fast-paced laboratory testing facility focused on microbiological and chemistry analysis of food products, ingredients, and environmental samples. The technician works in a structured lab setting with incubators, media, reagents, and standard microbiology equipment, following established safety and contamination-control procedures. The environment involves handling multiple samples, adhering to strict protocols, and maintaining a clean, organized workspace throughout the shift. The laboratory has experienced steady growth and is part of a larger lab group, offering the potential for permanent employment for those who consistently perform well and support the teams high-volume testing operations. This is a Contract position based out of San Antonio, TX, and is fully onsite.

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

• Previous