Laboratory Assistant LabWare

OMIC USA, Inc. is an international Analytical Laboratory and is committed to global food health and safety through the analytical testing services we offer to our clients.

 MISSION OF THE ROLE:

 The Laboratory Assistant in the Chemistry Laboratory performs an essential role of our high quality testing services by supporting continuous sample flow through providing a reliable supply of clean labware, calibration and verification of laboratory support equipment as directed and proposing improvements in their area to achieve the Company’s mission and objectives.

 RESPONSIBILITIES:  Other duties may be assigned.

 Laboratory Glassware

1. Performs accountabilities as Laboratory Assistant as per documented methods, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), or other laboratory procedures.
2. Wash and clean the glassware used in the laboratory and keep the work areas neat and clean to avoid cross contamination.
3. Ensure sufficient supply of reusable sample storage containers that are clean and ready for use.
4. Coordinate and provide labware cleaning and associated equipment training for Chemists and Laboratory Assistants as necessary.
   1. Directly train Chemists and others in various glassware and labware cleaning techniques and associated equipment.
   2. Direct work of Chemists and others supporting glassware and labware cleaning to ensure glassware and labware is available for use in a timely manner.
   3. Propose troubleshooting for issues with labware cleaning procedures and coordinates with supervisors on resolutions.

QA Unit Support

1. Perform internal calibration and verification of laboratory support equipment (pipette performance, temperature accuracy, etc.) as directed/scheduled by the Quality Assurance Unit (QAU)
2. Communicate non-conformities to QAU for course of action and/or data impact assessments.
3. Perform training of new lab personnel on operation and best practices for pipette use and handling, when applicable

General Sample Preparation Support

1. Assist sample preparation supervisor with any activities in this area as needed and directed (such as but not limited to performing backup task for sample preparation including Brix dilution and/or grinding).
2. Maintain, verify, and calibrate general laboratory equipment associated with daily work activities. Indicate when maintenance has been performed in logbooks as needed. Troubleshoot equipment problems and performs minor repairs; notify supervisor of issues that require external repair.
3. Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory operations by proposing and implementing changes for improving quality, reducing cost, and/or shortening process time.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This role has no supervisory responsibilities.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

EDUCATION

High school diploma; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

None

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Improvement initiatives
• Learning initiatives
• Ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines 
• Problem-solving skills
• High Emotional Intelligence
• Good cultural awareness and communication with people who have diverse backgrounds
• Experienced user of MS Office and Adobe Acrobat

 PERFORMANCE FACTORS 

• Quality of Work
• Communication
• Adaptability
• Teamwork
• Time Management
• Knowledge and Skills
• Initiative
• Dependability

 LANGUAGE SKILLS 

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures and governmental regulations. Ability to write Standard Operating Procedures and additional laboratory documentation.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS 

Ability to apply mathematical operations to tasks applicable to the position.

REASONING ABILITY 

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. 

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Biology, Chemistry, or related science from a four-year college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Experience with food and agricultural sample preparation and troubleshooting
• Knowledge of other relevant technologies and markets
• Familiar with the laboratory business environment 
• Experience working in international businesses

OTHERS:

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

OJT in understanding company operating systems, including the maintenance and operation of equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to be able to hear and understand instructions and handle items involving repetitive hand and wrist movement. The employee regularly lifts and/or moves items averaging 20 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

Works in a laboratory using general laboratory equipment. Employee may have exposure to hazardous chemicals and solvents. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.