Entry-Level Lab Technician
This entry-level Laboratory Technician role involves supporting daily lab operations including sample preparation, purification, and automation in a fast-paced scientific environment. The position requires adherence to safety protocols, operation of sequencing instruments, and effective communication with internal teams and clients. It offers an opportunity for early-career candidates to gain practical experience in a clinical or scientific laboratory setting.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Summary & Schedule
This is an entry-level to early-career Laboratory Technician / Laboratory Assistant opportunity supporting a Confidential Client in South Plainfield, NJ. Typical assignments include sample handling, basic molecular prep (including PCR purification), and supporting automated sequencing/processing workflows.
Compensation & type:
- Pay Rate: $20.98 / hour
- Position Type: Full-time; Contract / Contingent opportunities available
- Shifts:
- Laboratory Assistant — M–F: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM EST
- Laboratory Technician I — M–F: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM EST
- Laboratory Technician I — M–F: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM EST
Key Responsibilities
- Sort and log incoming samples following safety protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Handle biohazardous waste collection and sample packaging per trainer direction
- Prepare and purify sequencing templates (including PCR purification) and load samples onto automated sequencing instruments
- Assist with operation and basic maintenance of automation platforms and lab equipment
- Perform labware washing, basic calibration tasks, and station cleaning to maintain a compliant workspace
- Communicate sample status and routine updates professionally with internal teams and clients via email and phone
Qualifications & Requirements
- Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Associate or Bachelor’s in Biology, Chemistry, or related life sciences is a plus
- Skills: Familiarity or hands-on experience with basic liquid handling (pipetting) and unit conversions
- Attributes: Strong attention to detail, quick learner for technical procedures, and ability to manage time under deadlines
- Work style: Collaborative team player, adaptable, positive and solution-oriented with clear written and verbal communication
What We Offer / Why This Role
- Hands-on laboratory experience ideal for building a career in scientific or clinical labs
- Exposure to automated sequencing platforms and basic molecular techniques
- Multiple shift options to support different schedules
- Supervised, entry-level environment where training and growth are expected
Legal & Location Notes
This role is based in South Plainfield, NJ (07080). Employment will be with a Confidential Client and may be payroll/contracted through staffing arrangements depending on assignment. All hiring and employment decisions will follow applicable US federal and state employment laws.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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