Job Title: Lab AssistantJob DescriptionThe Lab Assistant supports the daily operations of a microbiological testing laboratory by ensuring samples, reagents, solutions, and supplies are prepared, organized, and available for use. This role focuses on sample handling, inventory support, equipment cleaning, and proper waste disposal, working closely with laboratory technicians to maintain an efficient, safe, and compliant lab environment.
Responsibilities
- Obtain a working knowledge of the laboratory Quality System and Laboratory Information System to support accurate and compliant operations.
- Receive, unpack, and organize customer samples for laboratory processing in a timely and organized manner.
- Organize and prepare customer returns for processing according to established procedures.
- Discard customer samples under appropriate supervision and guidance, following all safety and compliance protocols.
- Perform daily, weekly, and monthly routine cleaning of all laboratory equipment as needed to maintain a clean and functional workspace.
- Assist with laboratory operations inventory by monitoring stock levels and communicating needs to ensure uninterrupted workflow.
- Restock consumables and materials required for sample processing, including reagents, solutions, and other laboratory supplies.
- Operate a laser cutter under supervision and guidance, adhering to all safety and operational procedures.
- Dispose of microbial cultures, chemicals, recyclables, sharps, and glass in proper waste containers in accordance with laboratory safety and waste management protocols.
- Support laboratory technicians by ensuring they have all necessary reagents, solutions, and supplies available for testing activities.
- Clean glassware and other reusable laboratory items to support ongoing testing and research activities.
Essential Skills
- Basic understanding of microbiology principles and laboratory practices.
- Ability to assist with reagent preparation, solutions, and media preparation under guidance.
- Strong attention to detail when handling and organizing customer samples and returns.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adhere to standard operating procedures.
- Commitment to laboratory safety practices, including proper waste disposal and equipment cleaning.
- Education: High school diploma, Associate degree, or Bachelor of Science in Microbiology or a related discipline required.
- Experience: 02 years of related experience in a laboratory setting.
- Ability to learn and use the Quality System and Laboratory Information System to support lab operations.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted in place of the specific education and experience listed.
- Familiarity with microbiology laboratory workflows and support activities.
- Comfort working under supervision when operating specialized equipment such as a laser cutter.
- Ability to work collaboratively with laboratory technicians and other team members.
- Strong organizational skills for managing inventory, supplies, and sample logistics.
Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a microbiology laboratory environment focused on supporting testing activities rather than performing tests directly. The Lab Assistant works closely with laboratory technicians, ensuring that reagents, solutions, and supplies are prepared, stocked, and readily available. The work involves frequent handling of customer samples, cleaning glassware and equipment, and managing laboratory waste in accordance with safety protocols. The environment is structured, process-driven, and safety-conscious, with regular routine cleaning tasks and inventory support forming a key part of the daily workflow. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Wayne, PA. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Wayne, PA. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 27, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Wayne,PA.About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
