Production Laboratory Assistant

Job Title: Production Laboratory Assistant

Location: Oakland, CA
Salary: $40,000–$48,000 per year
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Short & Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance
Reports to: Production Laboratory Manager
Hours: Between 9:00 AM–6:30 PM PT (8-hour shift), as assigned
Employment Type: Full-Time, On-site

About AnimalBiome

Founded in 2016, AnimalBiome is an Oakland-based biotech company that uses cutting-edge microbiome science to improve the gut health of cats and dogs. Imbalances in the gut microbiome can contribute to digestive, skin, and weight issues. AnimalBiome analyzes microbiomes and restores balance through evidence-based dietary interventions and fecal transplants.

Our team is dedicated to transforming pet health through science and innovation.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Full-time Production Laboratory Assistant to join our growing team. This role is essential to maintaining the daily operations of our stool bank, supplement production processes, and facility logistics.

The Production Laboratory Assistant will:

• Process and prepare fecal material from healthy donor cats and dogs.
• Bottle, label, and package finished products.
• Maintain clean, organized laboratory spaces and equipment.
• Support facility operations such as recycling, garbage, deliveries, and inventory.

The ideal candidate has excellent attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Comfort in a dynamic startup environment, and the ability to learn, adapt, and troubleshoot are key.

Key ResponsibilitiesStool Bank Operations

• Process fecal donations from healthy cats and dogs, including removing unwanted portions and preparing material for storage.
• Clean and disinfect equipment used in stool bank and courier/donor operations.
• Follow biosafety, contamination prevention, and SOP protocols.
• Maintain accurate logs and documentation of stool bank activities.

Product Preparation & Production Support

• Bottle, label, package, and prepare products for direct-to-consumer and wholesale customers.
• Verify label and packaging accuracy.
• Repackage products for sale on multiple platforms.
• Maintain cleanliness of product preparation and general laboratory areas.

Facility & Logistics Support

• Organize and restock supplies for the production lab and donation recovery unit.
• Coordinate driver routes for pickups/deliveries using RoadWarrior.
• Support Oakland facility operations: garbage, recycling, mail/package distribution.
• Serve as a backup courier when needed (mileage reimbursement provided).

Inventory Management

• Track and replenish materials for finished goods and general lab use.
• Report low inventory or supply issues to the Production Lab Manager.

General Laboratory Support

• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment and workspaces.
• Log tasks, quality assurances, and records across multiple platforms/databases.
• Assist with organization, labeling, moving materials, and administrative tasks.
• Follow SOPs to ensure safety and quality.
• Support process improvement and cross-training initiatives.
• Contribute to sustainability and waste reduction efforts.

Working Conditions

• PPE required in most workspaces (safety glasses, lab clothing, masks, gloves).
• Exposure to strong odors (fecal matter, fish oil, kelp, pumpkin, etc.).
• Frequent handling of animal feces.
• Occasional extended or alternate hours based on production needs.
• Requires standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Animal Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in a laboratory environment.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Good organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work across multiple teams with shifting priorities.
• Effective communication skills.
• Able to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver's license and personal vehicle for occasional courier pickups.
• Comfortable in a startup environment with evolving responsibilities.
• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for an 8-hour shift.
• Familiarity with Google Suite and basic computer skills.
• Ability to learn and master databases and data recording tools.
• Current or recent experience with companion animals (including pet ownership).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and record-keeping accuracy.
• Ability to follow SOPs and adapt to new methods as needed.
• General laboratory maintenance skills.
• Motivated, flexible, and eager to problem-solve and self-teach.
• Team player who collaborates well with colleagues.

Compensation

AnimalBiome’s salaries are based on comprehensive market data and determined by education, experience, skills, and internal equity. New hires typically receive offers between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range.

Why Join Us?

At AnimalBiome, you’ll work alongside a passionate and supportive team committed to advancing pet health through science. In this role, you will:

• Directly contribute to improving the well-being of animals.
• Develop hands-on skills in laboratory operations, logistics, and quality control.
• Grow professionally in a mission-driven, dynamic environment.

If you're motivated, detail-oriented, and excited to support meaningful work in pet health, we’d love to meet you.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $48,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Much of this work takes place in a laboratory setting. Are you comfortable wearing the required PPE when working in the lab?

• AnimalBiome is passionate about helping animals. Tell us about your experience with animals which may include pets in your home.

• Please briefly describe your laboratory experience, including the types of tasks or responsibilities you’ve handled.
• This position requires working directly with animal feces and strong odors (e.g., fish oil, kelp). Did you read and understand this requirement?
• Can you lift up to 50 lbs and remain on your feet for an 8-hour shift?
• Are you comfortable performing repetitive tasks such as processing material, labeling, bottling, packaging, and cleaning?
• This position has a wide array of tasks that may change over time. Are you comfortable with multiple different job responsibilities, working with multiple teams and adapting to change?
• For this position, a bachelor’s degree is required. What was your field of study, and which university awarded your bachelor’s degree?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Language:

• English (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Oakland, CA 94609 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $48,000