Sample Processing Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Sample Processing Technician
Job Description

The Sample Processing Technician supports a high-volume, fast-paced commercial laboratory by executing accurate and consistent sample preparation and comminution techniques. This role manages the first stage of the sample life cycle, ensuring that processing, aliquoting, labeling, and storage are completed correctly to support reliable analytical testing of food samples. The position offers strong potential for transition to a full-time role, opportunities for growth across multiple labs, and the chance to work as part of a collaborative laboratory team.

Responsibilities

• Follow established preparation techniques for processing samples for laboratory testing, including the use of grinding mills and other comminution tools such as blenders, small grinders, and liquid nitrogen.
• Prepare, aliquot, and handle samples with precision to ensure consistency and integrity throughout the sample life cycle.
• Ensure accurate labeling of sample cups and containers with assigned unique identifiers to maintain traceability.
• Record sample preparation techniques, processing details, and delivery information in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and other designated software systems.
• Split time between sample processing and the dishroom laboratory area to support overall lab operations.
• Maintain glassware cleanliness for laboratory use, ensuring all glassware is washed, organized, and ready for use according to specific lab group needs.
• Collaborate with all lab groups to ensure glassware is cleaned, returned, and available based on their specific requirements and timelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized working area so that glassware and samples are dropped off, processed, and returned to the correct locations.
• Organize and maintain the structure of samples by accurately delivering, storing, and disposing of samples as necessary.
• Execute submission requests to third-party laboratories by logging samples, preparing them for shipment, and ensuring proper documentation.
• Follow all laboratory safety and quality requirements and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment and adherence to GMP, OSHA, and ISO standards.
• Support the sample handling and distribution process for the analytical lab, ensuring that food samples are prepared and routed correctly for testing.
• Work effectively as part of a team of approximately 10–12 colleagues in the lab preparation area to meet daily throughput and quality targets.
• Adhere to established workflows, prioritize tasks, and adjust to changes in workload in a fast-paced environment.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a laboratory setting or an associate degree (AS) in a science-related field; an AS or BS degree in a science-related field may be substituted for 2 years of experience.
• Experience with sample preparation and handling in a laboratory environment.
• Ability to use Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry and documentation.
• Proficiency with multiple computer systems, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in labeling, documentation, and sample handling.
• Ability to perform data entry and maintain accurate records in a laboratory setting.
• Capability to lift up to 40 pounds as part of routine laboratory duties.
• Ability to stand for 5–6 hours daily while performing laboratory tasks.
• Ability to complete tasks while wearing required personal protective equipment, including face shields, hearing protection, steel toe shoes, OSHA-approved safety glasses, laboratory coat, and cryogenic gloves.
• Comfort working in an environment with potential exposure to common food, environmental, and chemical allergens.
• Professional written and verbal communication skills for interacting with team members and other lab groups.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Willingness and availability to work alternating shifts (7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) Monday through Friday on site.

• Broad knowledge of food testing services and related laboratory practices.
• Background or education in nutrition, food science, or other science-related disciplines.
• Strong multitasking and task prioritization skills in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
• Fast learner with natural curiosity and a strong drive to learn new techniques and systems.
• Comfort asking clarifying questions to ensure accuracy and understanding of procedures.
• Flexibility in daily tasks and ability to adapt to changes in workload and priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a dynamic, changing environment.
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a large lab team.
• Proactive mindset, taking initiative to support lab operations and improve processes.
• Interest in long-term growth within a laboratory setting, including potential transition to a full-time role.
• Ability to support sample handling and distribution processes for analytical testing of food products.

This role is based on site in a technical center laboratory located in Golden Valley, working within a large lab preparation team of approximately 10–12 people. The environment is a high-volume, fast-paced commercial lab focused on sample handling and distribution for analytical testing of food samples. The schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with two primary shifts: 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Shifts alternate during the week, so you must be available for both. During the summer, core hours may allow shorter Fridays and longer days Monday through Thursday, depending on lab group needs. The position involves potential exposure and contact with common food, environmental, and chemical allergens, and work is performed in a laboratory setting that emphasizes safety and quality. You will use laboratory equipment such as grinding mills, blenders, small grinders, and liquid nitrogen, as well as computer systems including LIMS and Microsoft Office. Personal protective equipment is required and includes face shields, hearing protection, steel toe shoes, OSHA-approved safety glasses, laboratory coat, and cryogenic gloves. The dress code requires appropriate laboratory attire and steel toe shoes at all times in designated areas. The role offers holiday pay for six major holidays while on contract and provides a strong opportunity to convert to a full-time position with access to robust benefits and significant room for growth across multiple labs.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.