Technical Assistant (Glasswash/Autoclave Technician)

Job Title: Technical Assistant (Glasswash/Autoclave Technician)
Location: Berkeley, CA
Company: Bay Systems Consulting / Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Pay: $34 to $35 per hour benefits
Duration: 1-2-month contract

Overview:
Bay Systems Consulting is seeking a Technical Assistant (Glasswash/Autoclave Technician) to support laboratory operations at the Joint Genome Institute (JGI), located in Berkeley, CA. Under the supervision of the Shipping and Receiving Supervisor, this role is responsible for performing routine lab maintenance and support tasks to ensure a clean, organized, and fully functional research environment.

The JGI is a dynamic and collaborative scientific facility driven by a mission to push the boundaries of genomics research. We are seeking a dedicated and reliable individual who thrives in a team setting and is passionate about contributing to impactful scientific work.

Key Responsibilities:

Essential Duties (90%)

• Perform routine laboratory support tasks such as washing, drying, and sterilizing laboratory glassware and plasticware
• Operate industrial glassware washers, dryers, autoclaves, and water distillation systems
• Coordinate and manage dishwashing, autoclaving, media preparation, and pipette tip sterilization workflows
• Package and sterilize pipette tips
• Deliver clean and sterile supplies to designated stocking locations
• Perform weekly autoclave quality testing using two standard methods
• Monitor and replace sharps and broken glass containers
• Maintain storeroom shelf inventory and sink supplies in laboratories
• Ensure lab areas and workstations remain clean, organized, and compliant with safety standards
• Notify supervisor of equipment service needs and assist with general administrative tasks (e.g., filing, photocopying)
• Maintain accurate records of tasks completed and adhere to environmental health and safety regulations
• Prepare basic stock solutions and buffers using standard laboratory protocols
• Assist with waste collection, freezer defrosting, and distribution of lab supplies
• Help lab managers with general organization and cleanliness of lab areas
• Refill water stations and restock safety glass and shoe cover stations

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Good communication skills and ability to follow written/verbal instructions
• Comfortable interacting with diverse research teams and adapting to varying glassware needs
• Physically able to lift/move up to 45 lbs., kneel, walk, and stand for extended periods
• Valid California driver’s license
• Experience operating glassware washers and autoclaves
• Familiarity with basic laboratory procedures such as solution/media preparation and sterilization
• Knowledge of chemical safety practices and inventory protocols

This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a world-class research environment while supporting scientific advancement through reliable laboratory maintenance.

To Apply:
Please submit your resume and availability to be considered for this short-term assignment. We look forward to hearing from you!