Laboratory Assistant

SUMMARY

- Under close supervision, the Laboratory Assistant will perform routine laboratory procedures using aseptic technique, in compliance with specifications in all Standard Operating Procedures and Standard Test Procedures used to support testing and release of product.

PRINCIPAL JOB DUTIES:

- Prepare aseptic and non-aseptic media for other groups within QO
- Perform Environmental Monitoring in production areas
- Monitor processes and alert supervisory personnel of known or suspected quality problems
- Practice basic aseptic laboratory procedures as per training and SOPs
- Apply Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) to assigned work
- Learn and demonstrate understanding of basic sterilization principles
- Learn and comply with regulatory requirements such as USDA, FDA, EU
- Understand and use production schedules
- Assist in inventory management of laboratory supplies etc.

SKILLS:

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

- High school equivalency and two to three years relevant experience or two years college in the sciences or equivalent combination.
- Communication skills at high school level or above
- Ability to read and interpret safety procedures, operating and maintenance instructions, and department procedures
- Ability to communicate effectively with peers and supervisor
- Ability to document steps accurately and legibly
- Demonstrated ability to work in team environment
- Expresses a positive attitude
- Shows respect for co-workers
- Interpersonal skills to include effective verbal, non-verbal and written communication with co-workers in a team oriented environment
- Demonstrates initiative

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

- Math skills including solution of math equations, algebraic formulas etc.
- Understanding of the metric system
- Ability to use scientific calculator

REASONING ABILITY:

- Ability to understand instructions furnished in written, oral and/or diagram formats
- Ability to deal with problems involving several variables in standardized situations
- Ability to recognize product quality issues based on company guidelines
- Ability to decide if procedure has been compromised

PREFERRED CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS:

- College degree in biological sciences/chemistry
- Previous aseptic laboratory experience
- Competent with computer using Window-based applications
- Preferred candidates will have completed a college level microbiological sciences/chemistry course (or equivalent) course

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

- Manual dexterity using hands and fingers
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision work
- Occasional need to sit, kneel, crouch and climb; reach with hands and arms
- Capable of lifting 20-50 lbs. routinely
- Ability to withstand long periods of standing, exposure to temperature variations, disagreeable odors, caustic chemicals, noise, live steam
- Exposure to cleaning agents
- Demonstrate Safe Work Habits:
- Read and follow Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) guidelines
- Use personal protective equipment as required such as ANSI safety shoes and safety glasses
- Attend monthly safety training meetings
- Report all safety concerns
- Ensure safe work environment