Junior Laboratory Analysis
The Junior Laboratory Analysis role involves preparing and handling samples for quality and food safety testing in a pet nutrition laboratory. The position supports analytical chemists by maintaining laboratory equipment, managing inventory, ensuring compliance with safety and quality protocols, and collaborating within a fast-paced team environment. This entry-level role offers comprehensive training and requires physical stamina and attention to detail in a 100% onsite 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.
About the Role
Confidential Client is seeking a dependable, detail-focused Sample Prep Specialist to join a small, collaborative laboratory team supporting quality and food-safety testing for pet nutrition products. This entry-level role is ideal for candidates who want hands-on lab experience and reliable on-the-job training while supporting analytical chemists and technicians.
What You’ll Do
You will perform sample preparation and lab support tasks to keep testing operations running smoothly:
- Receive, catalog, label, store, and prepare raw material (plant- and animal-derived) and finished product samples for testing
- Wash, sanitize, dry, and store glassware and testing apparatus following GLP and lab sanitation procedures
- Monitor and manage consumables, reagents, and supply inventory; coordinate reorders to avoid delays
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area aligned with Good Laboratory Practices and site safety policies
- Record sample intake, inventory levels, and daily activities using Microsoft Office tools
- Communicate with analysts, technicians, and leadership to prioritize sample preparation and testing support
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Entry-level candidates welcome; 0+ years of experience — comprehensive on-the-job training provided
- Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Strong verbal and written communication skills for cross-shift collaboration
- Able to lift and carry up to 40 lbs repeatedly and work on your feet in a lab environment
- Comfortable handling raw materials derived from both plants and animals
Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have)
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or related technical field
- 1–2 years of lab, quality control, or food manufacturing experience
- Experience with lab inventory tracking, glassware washing, or data entry
- Working knowledge of basic chemistry or food-safety standards
Compensation, Schedule & Location
- Pay: $20.63 per hour
- Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours/week (Saturday – Wednesday)
- Duration: 6+ month contract with potential extension
- Work location: 100% onsite in Thompsons Station, TN
- Employment type: Full-time (contract)
Why Join
- Great entry-level opportunity to learn lab workflows and GLP practices
- Hands-on role that supports real food-safety and quality testing for pet nutrition products
- Small, collaborative team environment with structured training and mentorship
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.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range