Laboratory Assistant

Job Title: Specimen Processing Specialist / Laboratory Assistant

Job Description

This role supports a high-volume consumer genetics laboratory during peak season and a special project by processing specimens that help individuals learn about their ancestry and understand their genetic health risks. The Specimen Processing Specialist / Laboratory Assistant receives, stages, and prepares samples for testing while performing quality control and data entry to ensure accurate and reliable results.

Responsibilities

• Receive incoming specimens and verify that all samples and accompanying documentation are complete and properly identified.
• Stage specimens according to established laboratory workflows to ensure efficient processing and timely testing.
• Aliquot specimens for testing by accurately transferring samples into appropriate containers while maintaining sample integrity.
• Perform required quality control and quality assurance activities, including detecting and resolving errors in specimen handling and documentation.
• Maintain accurate records and logs of specimens, processing steps, and quality checks in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Pull samples for rework or additional testing as requested, ensuring proper tracking and documentation.
• Support specimen collection workflows by handling patient information and ensuring proper labeling and identification of all samples.
• Perform data entry of specimen, patient, and test information into laboratory information systems with a high level of accuracy.
• Assist with inventory management by monitoring supplies, labeling materials, and ensuring that necessary items are available for daily operations.
• Support sample preparation activities, including accessioning, pipetting, and other pre-analytical laboratory tasks as needed.
• Collaborate with laboratory team members to meet turnaround times and maintain high standards of quality and efficiency.
• Follow all laboratory safety procedures and guidelines while handling specimens and working with laboratory equipment.

Essential Skills

• Experience or exposure in specimen processing, including receiving, staging, and aliquoting samples.
• Ability to handle specimen collection workflows and manage patient information with accuracy and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in labeling specimens and maintaining clear, accurate identification throughout the processing workflow.
• Data entry skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy in recording specimen and patient information.
• Familiarity with laboratory tasks such as accessioning, sample preparation, and pipetting.
• Basic understanding of laboratory practices in areas such as chemistry, biology, or general laboratory operations.
• Ability to perform quality control and quality assurance duties, including error detection and recordkeeping.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple specimens and tasks in a high-volume environment.
• Capability to follow standard operating procedures and comply with laboratory policies and safety guidelines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in a science-related field is preferred but not required.
• Prior laboratory experience or exposure is a plus and is preferred over candidates with no laboratory experience.
• Background or coursework in biology, chemistry, or related scientific disciplines is beneficial.
• Experience working in a laboratory assistant, lab prep, or similar role is advantageous.
• Comfort working with technology and laboratory information systems for data entry and tracking.
• Interest in consumer genetics, diagnostic testing, or healthcare-related laboratory work.

Work Environment

This position is based in a laboratory setting focused on high-volume diagnostic and consumer genetics testing. You will work primarily with biological specimens, including discarding old samples and pulling samples to be shipped to another biobank, while following established safety and handling procedures. The role involves frequent use of standard laboratory equipment and tools such as pipettes, labeling systems, and computer-based laboratory information systems.

This is a Contract position based out of Burlington, NC.

The pay range for this position is $18.50 - $18.50/hr.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Burlington,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 4, 2026.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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.

Salary : $19