Lab Assistant - Entry Level
The Lab Assistant supports pharmaceutical laboratory and manufacturing operations by preparing, cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining laboratory equipment and materials in compliance with GMP and quality standards. This entry-level role requires attention to detail, adherence to SOPs, and accurate documentation within a fast-paced, regulated environment. The position offers training and career growth opportunities in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
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 (Pharmaceutical Manufacturing).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Summary
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Lab Assistant to support laboratory and pharmaceutical manufacturing operations in Baxter Estates, NY. This is a Contract-to-Hire, fully onsite role focused on sterilization, equipment preparation, basic maintenance, and accurate documentation in a GMP environment. Training is provided; this role is ideal for candidates with some lab or production experience who want a career path in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
What You’ll Do
- Clean, sanitize, and sterilize laboratory and production equipment following SOPs and quality standards.
- Prepare materials and equipment for sterilization (wrapping, sealing, staging).
- Operate and load Dry Heat and Vacuum Ovens; maintain accurate logbook entries.
- Perform terminal sterilization activities and assist manufacturing as needed.
- Assemble, set up, maintain, and perform basic repairs on laboratory glassware and related equipment.
- Replace tubing and perform routine equipment maintenance tasks.
- Create and track deviation reports when required.
- Complete inventory and material transactions using SAP or similar systems.
- Maintain accurate records to meet quality and regulatory requirements.
- Support general laboratory housekeeping and organization.
- Follow all safety, quality, and GMP requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 6 months of experience in a laboratory, pharmaceutical manufacturing, production, or related setting.
- Basic knowledge of biology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or related disciplines.
- Understanding of laboratory procedures, quality systems, and documentation best practices.
- Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain accurate records.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Able to work independently and as part of a team.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle for commuting to the facility.
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field.
- Experience in GMP / FDA-regulated lab or pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
- Familiarity with SAP or other inventory/tracking systems.
- Prior experience with sterilization workflows, cleanroom operations, or oven operation (dry heat, vacuum).
Physical Requirements
- Regularly lift and move materials up to 25 pounds.
- Repeatedly handle, load, and unload trays and laboratory equipment.
- Standing, walking, bending, and lifting for extended periods.
- Ability to work safely around manufacturing materials and equipment.
Work Environment & Schedule
- Fully onsite role at the Baxter Estates, NY facility.
- Typical schedule: Monday–Friday with opportunities for overtime.
- This position operates in a regulated laboratory and pharmaceutical manufacturing environment that requires strict adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory protocols.
Pay & Benefits
- Hourly rate: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour (range reflects target compensation depending on experience and qualifications).
- Benefits (if eligible): medical, dental & vision; 401(k); life insurance; short/long-term disability; HSA; transportation benefits; Employee Assistance Program; paid time off. Eligibility may depend on job classification and tenure.
Employment Type & Location
- Contract to Hire — Full-Time (on-site)
- Location: Baxter Estates, NY, USA
Why Join
- Structured training and clear career advancement opportunities within pharmaceutical manufacturing and scientific operations.
- Hands-on experience with sterilization equipment, GMP processes, and inventory systems (SAP).
- Work on a team that values safety, quality, and continuous learning.
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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