SUMMARY

The Infectious Disease Laboratory Branch (IDLB) is currently seeking a highly motivated Laboratory Assistant to join the Genomics Center group. In this role, the candidate will assist colleagues in executing Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows that support the surveillance, diagnostics, and research efforts of the California Department of Public Health.

The successful candidate will perform important laboratory duties such as specimen accessioning, inventory monitoring, and processing; performing quality control checks on equipment; preparing media and reagents; equipment to assist with quality control; and record keeping. The Laboratory Assistant will assist with the NGS workflows in the Genomics Center group including library preparation, targeted enrichment, and DNA sequencing. Maintaining an organized, neat, and clean work environment, working well in a team environment, and being organized and detail-oriented are essential.

The Laboratory Assistant will also assist with the overall lab work aiding other research staff and work closely with members to accomplish the goals of the Genomics Center. The position is in Richmond, CA.

Must submit a resume with the application.

The hourly range for this position is $22.00 per hour to $33.00 per hour depending on experience/qualifications.

Must be able to work flexible hours that may include weekends and holidays.

If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to the start date; or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation). The applicant will need to have the qualifying exemption.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assist in procedures associated with DNA sequencing on various sequencing platforms, including DNA and RNA library preparation, sample quantification & preparation, and sequencer operation.
• Operate and maintain various laboratory instrumentation, including NGS sequencers, Liquid Handlers, and PCR/qPCR machines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and execute verification and validation studies for regulatory submissions.
• Perform general laboratory maintenance to ensure assigned areas and equipment are maintained in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Maintain QA and QC records for the laboratory, when necessary.
• Prepare reagents and media for specimen processing and extraction.
• Assist with experimental design, sample preparation, data collection, and analyses of sequencing projects.
• Ability to assist with other IDLB activities/testing in other sections to enhance capacity during laboratory surges.
• Other duties as necessary in the laboratory or office when deemed necessary.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with general molecular biology methods, such as ligation, gene cloning; gel electrophoresis of nucleic acids and troubleshooting of NGS library preparation.
• Familiarity with DNA workflows and sequencing library QC methods including Fragment Analyzer, BioAnalyzer, TapeStation, Qubit, and qPCR.
• Experience with DNA library preparation protocols including Illumina short-read and Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing is a plus.
• Experience using robotic liquid handling equipment is a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to work within a small team environment that collaborates widely.
• Attention to detail and application of laboratory safety practices.
• Ability to learn and apply concepts to the job at hand.

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science, with course work in chemistry, microbiology, and/or molecular biology is preferred, but not required.

Certificates/Licenses/Clearances

• Possession of a Public Health Microbiologist certificate preferred, or eligibility for the Public Health Microbiologist training program.

Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings.
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand: Frequently
• Walk: Frequently
• Sit: Frequently
• Handling / Fingering: Frequently
• Reach Outward: Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder: Occasionally
• Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend: Occasionally
• Lift / Carry: Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs
• Push/Pull: Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs
• See: Constantly
• Taste/ Smell: Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable = Not required for essential functions
• Occasionally = (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently = (2 - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly = (5 hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

General office and laboratory setting, indoors, temperature controlled

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Heluna Health is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer that encourages minorities, women, veterans, and disabled to apply.