Laboratory Technician I
The Laboratory Technician I at Confidential Client is an entry-level role focused on processing human biospecimens including blood components and immune cells for research purposes. The technician performs sample processing, quality control, and documentation under supervision, while also supporting fulfillment tasks such as kit building and sample shipping. This role requires adherence to safety and quality standards within a BSL-2 laboratory environment and offers opportunities for skill development and progression.
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.
Position summary
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Laboratory Technician I in San Diego, CA. This hands-on role focuses on processing human whole blood and other biospecimens for research (plasma, serum, PBMCs, immune cell subsets, cell counting, aliquots, thawing, storage). The position includes scheduled rotations into fulfillment (kitting, shipping, sample retrieval), formal SOP-based training, and opportunities to sign off on procedures and advance to a Laboratory Technician II role.
What You’ll Do
- Accurately accession and document biospecimens per SOPs and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
- Process whole blood into plasma, serum, and PBMCs (density gradient separation and cryopreservation) under guidance until independently signed off.
- Assist with isolation of immune cell subsets (T, B, NK), cell counting, aliquot preparation, thawing, and basic QC including post-thaw viability checks.
- Process other sample types as trained (urine, stool, saliva, leukopaks, synovial fluid, skin punch biopsies).
- Support basic cell-based assay work and assist with flow cytometry and research-grade testing under supervision.
- Maintain complete, accurate, and timely LIMS entries and sample tracking (storage, transfers, distributions).
- Rotate on a scheduled basis into fulfillment tasks: kit builds, frozen shipment prep, packaging, courier coordination following IATA and SOP requirements.
Fulfillment, rotation & cross-training
- Prepare and pack biological samples for shipment, follow IATA and internal shipping requirements.
- Support kit builds and frozen shipment preparations on rotation with the fulfillment team.
- Receive, unpack, verify incoming deliveries and assist with inventory and supply counts.
- Complete cross-training on backup teams and maintain documented competency records.
Equipment, safety & compliance
- Perform routine equipment maintenance, cleaning, and waste disposal following SOPs and manufacturer guidance.
- Participate in rotating on-call coverage for freezer/system alarms after training.
- Complete routine temperature checks and equipment logs; escalate equipment or sample issues to leads.
- Follow the quality management system (QMS), SOPs, work instructions, and all applicable biosafety/EHS procedures.
- Identify and flag unclear SOP steps or documentation gaps to team leads for correction.
Minimum qualifications
- Associate’s degree plus at least 1 year of experience in a life-science laboratory, OR 2+ years as a Biorepository Associate (I or II).
- Ability to communicate clearly in verbal and written form.
- Intermediate computer skills (LIMS experience is a plus).
- Willingness to complete cross-training and sign-offs: kit build within 6 months, frozen shipment prep under guidance within 12 months.
- Availability for full-time shifts Monday–Friday between 7 AM and 7 PM; occasional weekend coverage as needed.
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and to wear required PPE.
Preferred qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a life science field.
- Experience with mammalian blood samples and PBMC processing.
- Prior experience in a biobank, biorepository, or similar sample-processing environment.
Working conditions & requirements
- Work in a BSL-2 laboratory environment with biohazards and chemicals; required to wear PPE.
- Must adhere to infectious disease and immunization protocols as applicable.
- Participation in on-call rotation and occasional weekend schedules may be required.
- Physical ability to perform laboratory tasks, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 40 lbs.
Compensation & benefits
- Estimated base pay: $41,759 per year (estimated figure from source). Actual compensation and benefits will be provided by the hiring organization and may vary by experience and location.
- Confidential Client may offer additional benefits — details will be provided during the hiring process.
Why apply through Careertakes
- Careertakes is a third-party recruiting partner; we provide confidential candidate support and may share additional matched roles that fit your profile.
- We optimize candidate fit for Confidential Client roles and help streamline interview scheduling and onboarding logistics.
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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