What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant position at GForce Life Sciences?
Research Assistant I- Lab Operations
12-month Contract
On-site in San Rafael, CA
Must be able to work on a W2
Requirements
- Provide hands-on operational support to research laboratories, ensuring equipment readiness, consumable availability, and overall lab functionality
- Work closely with scientists, lab users, vendors, and internal support teams to support day-to-day laboratory operations in a fast-paced environment
Equipment & Instrument Support
- Schedule and perform routine decontamination and coordinate calibration for laboratory incubators
- Maintain incubator water levels and respond to basic maintenance needs
- Coordinate freezer thaws for −20°C and −80°C units
- Track and coordinate equipment maintenance and repairs with vendors
- Decontaminate and maintain laboratory water baths
- Manage Auto Stainer solutions
- Escort and assist vendors during equipment installation, preventive maintenance, and repairs
Consumables & Inventory Support
- Serve as point of contact for onsite stockroom coordination
- Assist with lab expansion and inventory augmentation projects
- Order, stock, and manage non-catalog laboratory consumables from approved suppliers
- Attend supply chain meetings and communicate material availability issues
Glassware & Sterilization
- Collect used glassware and operate glass wash equipment
- Restock clean glassware in laboratories
- Operate autoclaves to sterilize lab materials and return items to users
Buffer Preparation
- Prepare, stock, and maintain designated buffer solutions
- Monitor buffer levels and replenish as needed
Facilities & General Lab Support
- Build working relationships with Facilities and Site Services teams
- Submit and track service requests for facility-related issues
- Assist with lab improvement and operational support projects
- Submit equipment requests in the CMMS platform for controlled temperature equipment
- Provide general lab support to ensure safe and efficient operations
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED required
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in laboratory operations or a laboratory support environment
Skills & Competencies
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment
- Comfortable working with internal partners and service vendors
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, move, and handle objects up to 50 pounds
- Ability to stand or sit for extended periods, use computers and laboratory instruments, and work in confined spaces