Lab Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Lab Technician
Job Description

This role offers an opportunity to contribute to a fast-paced genomics laboratory by performing nucleic acid extractions, quantitative PCR, and next-generation sequencing workflows. The lab technician supports high-throughput DNA sequencing projects, ensures sample quality, and maintains laboratory equipment and supplies. This position requires strong attention to detail, excellent pipetting skills, and the ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures while collaborating closely with a focused and dedicated team.

Responsibilities

• Independently carry out nucleic acid extractions from a variety of sample types, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Perform quantitative PCR (qPCR) set-up, including reagent preparation and plate layout, and analyze resulting data.
• Prepare libraries for high-throughput next-generation sequencing following established protocols.
• Operate next-generation DNA analyzers to carry out DNA sequencing runs.
• Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of DNA analyzers and related laboratory equipment.
• Conduct sample quality control (QC) assessments to ensure samples meet sequencing and assay requirements.
• Check inventory levels regularly and replenish consumable sequencing supplies and reagents as needed.
• Accurately document laboratory activities, data, and results in appropriate systems or records.
• Communicate with customers by phone and email in a friendly, professional, and timely manner regarding sample status and results as directed.
• Follow existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and contribute to the refinement and development of SOPs when needed.
• Adhere to standard laboratory processes and good documentation practices to support work in a regulated environment.
• Collaborate effectively with supervisors and colleagues, acting as an engaged team player committed to shared goals.
• Support production workflows in a high-throughput environment by meeting turnaround times and quality standards.
• Assist with general lab tasks such as organizing workspaces, managing lab inventory, and performing basic data entry related to samples and experiments.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, or a closely related biological discipline.
• At least 1 year of experience working in a biological laboratory setting.
• Strong manual pipetting skills, including consistent and precise handling of small volumes.
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and related workflows.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory processes and practices, including handling biological samples and reagents.
• Ability to follow and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) accurately.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interaction with colleagues and customers.
• Proficiency with computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for data entry, reporting, and documentation.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in all laboratory tasks and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, production-oriented lab environment.
• Willingness and ability to work 2nd shift hours from approximately 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. (or similar stated shift).

• Experience working in a regulatory environment such as CLIA/CAP, GLP, GMP, or GCP is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows and DNA sequencing instruments.
• Experience with sample quality control (QC) in genomics or molecular biology workflows.
• Background in genomics, biology, molecular biology, microbiology, or related life sciences.
• Experience as a lab assistant, lab technician, or in a similar laboratory support role.
• Comfort with lab inventory management and basic data entry related to sample tracking and results.
• Ability to contribute to the development and optimization of Standard Operating Procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a focused team.
• Demonstrated reliability in meeting deadlines and supporting production goals in a laboratory setting.

This position is based in a leading genomics services laboratory that specializes in DNA sequencing, gene synthesis, molecular biology, next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics, and regulatory-compliant services. The lab operates in a fast-paced, production-focused environment where customers rely on rapid and cost-effective results. You will work with modern next-generation DNA analyzers and related molecular biology equipment, supported by established SOPs and quality systems. The team consists of approximately 70 people in the lab, with about 7 individuals on the 2nd shift including a shift lead. The role is primarily on 2nd shift, typically from around 3:30–4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., with a 1-hour lunch break. New hires receive about one month of training on 1st shift (approximately 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.), including an initial week of orientation, introductions, and shadowing trainers, followed by weeks of hands-on implementation in the lab. The environment is serious and focused, yet can be laid back at times, with everyone working hard to achieve shared goals and support ongoing business growth and expansion into clinical work. No specific dress code details are provided beyond standard expectations for a professional laboratory setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $28.00/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 SOUTH PLAINFIELD,NJ.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 19, 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.