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Lab Technician
Entry-Level JobVerifiedNo experience needed
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What they do
A Laboratory Technician performs routine tests on samples of body fluids, tissues, and other substances for diagnostic and research purposes. Works under the supervision of a medical laboratory technologist in a laboratory or healthcare facility.
$48,214 / year median in the U.S.
+1% projected growth
Job Description
Job Title:
Laboratory Technician - PCR and Quality Control (Night Shift) Job Description This role supports a high-throughput laboratory environment by operating advanced equipment, performing PCR-based workflows, and ensuring products meet stringent quality standards. You will work extensively with thermal cyclers, automated liquid handling systems, and custom software to process, test, and route products according to documented protocols and ISO requirements. This position is ideal for individuals with a strong laboratory background who enjoy hands-on work, multitasking, and contributing to an efficient manufacturing pipeline on a weekend night shift schedule. Responsibilities Operate a variety of laboratory equipment to process products, with heavy use of thermal cyclers and automated liquid handling workstations. Use computers and custom software in a Windows-based environment to manage workflows, document activities, and track products. Adhere to all departmental protocols, contamination controls, safety procedures, and comply with ISO 9001 and other applicable ISO requirements. Quantify and sample products for quality control tests to ensure they meet defined specifications. Recognize process or equipment problems and promptly seek appropriate assistance to resolve issues. Maintain accurate and detailed records for products, instruments, and laboratory activities. Assess quality control data to appropriately route and process products in alignment with outlined specifications. Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment and workspaces as needed to support reliable operations. Maintain daily shipping deadlines and sustain the processing pipeline for products that require further manufacturing steps. Follow documented custom instructions and standard operating procedures when applicable. Contribute to and support an efficient manufacturing environment by optimizing workflow and minimizing bottlenecks. Communicate effectively with peers and management at all levels to ensure clear and detailed transfer of information. Perform a variety of PCR protocols and subsequent post-PCR cleanup steps with high accuracy and consistency. Execute multiple processes simultaneously to ensure efficient handling and throughput of products. Use aseptic techniques to minimize the risk of contamination to products and maintain product integrity. Organize and prioritize workload appropriately to ensure efficient product manufacture and timely completion of tasks. Demonstrate behavior consistent with the organization's core values, including quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Perform other related duties as assigned to support laboratory operations and business needs. Essential Skills Hands-on laboratory experience working with biological or chemical samples. Proficiency with PCR techniques, including setup, execution, and post-PCR cleanup steps. Experience with DNA extraction and qPCR in a laboratory setting. Ability to perform quality control testing and interpret QC data to make appropriate processing decisions. Familiarity with operating thermal cyclers and automated liquid handling workstations. Comfort using computers and custom software in a Windows-based environment for data entry, tracking, and reporting. Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate and comprehensive product and instrument records. Capability to recognize and respond to process or equipment issues by escalating or seeking assistance as needed. Demonstrated ability to multitask and execute multiple processes simultaneously while maintaining accuracy. Competence in using aseptic techniques to minimize contamination risk. Effective communication skills to collaborate with peers and management and ensure clear information transfer. Ability to follow detailed protocols, standard operating procedures, and documented custom instructions. Strong organizational skills to prioritize workload and meet daily shipping and production deadlines. Additional Skills & Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a science-related field is preferred. background in laboratory biology, chemistry, or a related discipline. Experience working in a manufacturing or high-throughput laboratory environment. Familiarity with ISO 9001 and other ISO-based quality systems. Comfort performing routine maintenance and cleaning of laboratory equipment and workspaces. Demonstrated commitment to core values such as quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Work Environment This role is based in a laboratory manufacturing environment that operates on a weekend night shift schedule, typically Friday through Sunday from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Training may occur on a different shift, and candidates should be flexible to accommodate an alternative training schedule. The position involves frequent use of thermal cyclers, automated liquid handling workstations, and computers running custom software in a Windows-based environment. Work is hands-on and fast-paced, with a strong emphasis on meeting daily shipping deadlines and maintaining an efficient processing pipeline. The laboratory follows ISO 9001 and related ISO standards, with strict adherence to contamination controls, safety procedures, and aseptic techniques. The role requires standing for extended periods, working at laboratory benches, and performing routine equipment maintenance and cleaning. Base pay is structured for a 36-hour work week rather than a 40-hour work week and includes a separate shift differential for the night schedule; if an employee moves to a different shift, their pay will adjust accordingly. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Coralville, IA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.19 - $31.07/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Coralville,IA.