Laboratory Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Laboratory Assistant

Job Description

The Laboratory Assistant supports day-to-day operations in a microbiology laboratory by preparing media, handling samples, performing routine testing, and maintaining a clean and organized work area. This full-time role follows a Sunday–Wednesday schedule with 10-hour shifts and begins with approximately one month of first-shift training. The position offers extensive hands-on experience, cross-training opportunities, and exposure to real-world laboratory practices in a rapidly growing facility.

Responsibilities

• Prepare microbiological media according to established protocols and quality standards.
• Perform microbiology laboratory testing for the majority of the workday, following standard operating procedures.
• Handle, plate, and process biological samples accurately and efficiently.
• Use laboratory equipment and tools, including pipettes and plating instruments, in a safe and precise manner.
• On Sundays, focus on cleaning dishes, dumping post-enriched samples, and performing general laboratory cleaning tasks.
• Complete daily documentation accurately, including recording test results and maintaining lab records.
• Perform routine housekeeping tasks such as cleaning work areas, organizing supplies, and disposing of waste appropriately.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high quality and productivity standards.
• Follow all laboratory safety procedures and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment.
• Participate in cross-training and support additional laboratory areas as performance and business needs allow.

Essential Skills

• Experience or academic background in biology, microbiology, or a related laboratory science.
• Hands-on experience working in a laboratory setting or completing lab coursework.
• Proficiency in basic microbiology techniques such as plating and handling biological samples.
• Ability to use common lab equipment, including pipettes and other standard laboratory instruments.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written and verbal procedures accurately.
• Capability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Effective time management skills to handle a high volume of testing and routine tasks within the shift.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Degree in the sciences is a plus but not required.
• Interest in gaining real-world laboratory experience in a fast-growing environment.
• Willingness to cross-train and learn additional laboratory techniques and areas.
• Adaptability to changing priorities and tasks within the lab.
• Strong organizational skills and a proactive approach to maintaining a clean and efficient workspace.

Work Environment

The role is based in a laboratory environment where you will spend approximately 80% to 90% of your time performing microbiology testing and related lab work. The remaining one to two hours each day will involve documentation, cleaning, and other routine tasks that support smooth lab operations. This is a full-time position with 4x10-hour shifts from Sunday through Wednesday, following an initial training period on first shift (approximately 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for about one month). After training, standard hours are Monday through Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and include Sunday as part of the regular schedule. The environment is fast-paced and growth-oriented, with opportunities for cross-training and development in additional laboratory areas. Work is performed in a professional lab setting that requires appropriate laboratory attire and adherence to safety procedures at all times.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of NEW BERLIN, WI.

The pay range for this position is $20.17 - $20.17/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 NEW BERLIN,WI.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 6, 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.