Lab Technician

Entry-Level Microbiology Laboratory Technician

Legacy Environmental Laboratory, LLC

Sterling, VA

About Us

Legacy Environmental Laboratory is an AIHA-accredited environmental microbiology laboratory supporting healthcare facilities, compounding pharmacies, hospitals, consultants and industrial hygiene professionals. We specialize in analyzing samples from environmental monitoring per USP <797> standards, fungal and bacterial cultures, Legionella and waterborne pathogens, and indoor air quality such as spore traps.

We are a growing, quality-driven laboratory focused on technical excellence and a clear, client-friendly experience.

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Entry-Level Laboratory Technician to join our microbiology team. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate in Biology, Microbiology, or a related life science field who is looking to begin their career in a professional laboratory environment.

The technician will assist with preparing samples for routine microbiological testing, assist with environmental monitoring sample processing, and support quality and compliance activities under supervision.

This role is heavily integrated into our daily quality systems and laboratory operations, providing hands-on experience with real-world microbiological workflows and compliance requirements.

Daily Core Responsibilities:

• Process environmental samples (air, surface, and water) in accordance with laboratory SOPs
• Plate samples using aseptic technique and support incubation workflows
• Log and track samples accurately within the LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System)
• Prepare media, reagents, and laboratory supplies for daily testing

Quality Control & Laboratory Systems:

• Complete and maintain required laboratory logs
• Support Chain of Custody (COC) verification and sample intake accuracy
• Ensure all work complies with ISO 17025 and AIHA accreditation requirements
• Maintain clear, accurate, and audit-ready documentation

Growth & Development Opportunities:

• Assist with bacterial and fungal identification (genus/speciation)
• Develop proficiency in USP <797> environmental monitoring workflows
• Support advanced testing such as Legionella and water microbiology
• Participate in data review, reporting, and trend analysis
• Grow into independent analyst responsibilities and specialized roles

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, or related life science (completed or graduating soon)
• Exposure to hands-on laboratory coursework (e.g., in-person microbiology or biology labs) preferred
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to follow SOPs precisely
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Professional and friendly communication skills (answering the phone, greeting clients)
• Ability to stand for extended periods and work at a laboratory bench

Preferred (but not required):

• Microbiology lab coursework
• Experience with aseptic technique
• Experience counting colonies or working with agar plates
• Understanding of basic cleanroom or USP <797> concepts

What We Offer:

• Hands-on training in environmental microbiology
• Exposure to regulatory laboratory operations (ISO 17025, AIHA LAP)
• Career path and growth opportunities as the company expands
• Supportive, team-oriented work environment

Who This Role Is Ideal For:

• A recent (or soon to be) graduate who wants real, hands-on laboratory experience
• A person who understands that their work directly supports healthcare environments and patient safety, and takes that responsibility seriously
• Someone who thrives in a structured, SOP-driven environment
• Someone who is coachable, detail-oriented, and motivated to grow within a high-quality, process-driven laboratory environment
• Someone who takes a team-first approach, recognizing that both routine and critical tasks are essential to maintaining a high-quality laboratory

Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have hands-on, in-person laboratory experience as part of your coursework or work experience?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $24