Lab Technician

Job Description

Job Summary:

• The Columbia R&D Operations Lab Support role is a hands-on position within a professional laboratory environment, focused on supporting the cleaning, upkeep, and operational readiness of fermenter systems through routine cleaning and preventive maintenance activities.
• This role emphasizes adherence to safety standards and standard work documents to ensure reliable, compliant, and efficient lab operations.
• In addition to core equipment support, the position plays a key role in maintaining overall laboratory functionality by executing autoclave sterilization and validation cycles, supporting facilities operations, and ensuring proper inventory management and supply availability.
• Success in this role requires strong teamwork and collaboration with cross-functional partners, attention to detail, and a proactive commitment to fostering a safe, organized, and high-performing laboratory environment.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Lab Technician Responsibilities:

• Lab Technicians are responsible for following established processes and executing tasks as directed by the onsite Columbia R&D Operations Manager while maintaining a safe and professional laboratory environment.

Cleaning Services:

• Clean and maintain laboratory glassware.
• Perform thorough cleaning of fermenters (vessels and headplates).
• Clean and sanitize laboratory equipment.
• Maintain general lab cleanliness to support a safe, organized, and compliant workspace.

Fermenter Maintenance:

• Support routine preventive maintenance activities to ensure optimal equipment performance.
• Perform tubing replacement as required.
• Assist with seal assembly and impeller replacement.
• Conduct pressure relief valve testing and replacement.
• Perform probe calibration.

Site Support Services:

• Provide operational support across the site, working collaboratively with cross-functional teams:
• Autoclave Operations: Execute sterilization cycles, perform validation of autoclave processes, and conduct kill-run cycles to ensure effective decontamination and compliance with operational standards.
• Facilities Support: Partner with the Facilities team to perform routine inspections and reconcile stockroom inventory, ensuring accuracy, organization, and operational readiness.
• Restock laboratory supplies to maintain appropriate inventory levels.
• Support bulk autoclave cycles as needed.
• Assist with consumables ordering and inventory tracking.
• Perform additional duties as assigned based on operational needs.

Education:

• High school diploma not required.

General Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and standard work documents.

Core Competencies:

• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to SOPs.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow standardized processes.
• Teamwork and collaboration across departments.
• Organizational skills and ability to maintain a clean, efficient work environment.
• Reliability and proactive approach to supporting lab operations.