Laboratory Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Laboratory Assistant / Clinical Research Specialist

Job Description

This role supports clinical research by handling and processing biological samples collected during clinical trials while strictly adhering to study protocols, Good Clinical Practices (GCP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The Laboratory Assistant / Clinical Research Specialist works closely with clinical staff and study participants to ensure accurate sample documentation, secure handling, and timely processing of specimens. The position requires meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and high-quality standards within the department.

Responsibilities

• Handle, receive, and document biological samples collected during clinical trials in accordance with study protocols, GCP, and SOPs.
• Ensure all tasks are performed in full compliance with protocol requirements, Good Clinical Practices, and internal Standard Operating Procedures.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of clinical trial participants and sponsors, safeguarding all sensitive and proprietary information.
• Report procedural deviations, issues, and problem resolutions promptly to the appropriate supervisory team members.
• Work both on the clinic floor and in the laboratory area located just off the clinic floor, adapting to the needs of ongoing studies.
• Understand and follow protocol-driven timed study events, including centrifugation and other time-sensitive procedures.
• Handle, process, and store study and clinical diagnostic samples within the acceptable time windows defined by protocols and SOPs.
• Perform accurate data entry related to sample collection, processing, and storage, ensuring records are complete and error-free.
• Use pipetting techniques and other basic laboratory skills to support sample processing and preparation.
• Collaborate with clinical and laboratory staff to coordinate workflow and ensure timely completion of study-related tasks.
• Identify and anticipate study needs and proactively make recommendations for process improvements to management.
• Manage multiple conflicting priorities while maintaining high quality and accuracy in all assigned tasks.
• Provide professional and courteous customer service to internal and external stakeholders, including study staff and participants.
• Communicate effectively with team members and other departments to support smooth study operations and resolve issues.
• Follow all safety and quality procedures in the laboratory and clinic areas to maintain a compliant and secure work environment.

Essential Skills

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 0–3 years of related experience in a clinical, laboratory, or research environment.
• Knowledge of Good Clinical Practices (GCP) and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures.
• Proficiency in data entry with strong attention to accuracy and detail.
• Basic laboratory skills, including pipetting and handling biological samples.
• Proficiency with MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and industry-specific manuals.
• Ability to write advanced reports and professional correspondence.
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong, trusting relationships.
• Ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-directed and motivated, with a demonstrated willingness to take initiative.
• Strong organizational skills and a high level of detail orientation.
• Customer service focus with a professional and collaborative approach to working with others.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• College degree and related work experience preferred.
• Experience in clinical research or clinical laboratory settings is beneficial.
• Experience working with timed study events and protocol-driven procedures is an advantage.
• Ability to anticipate study needs and recommend improvements to processes and workflows.
• Comfort working both on the clinic floor and in a laboratory environment.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing study requirements and schedules.

Work Environment

This position is based inside a clinical research facility in Overland Park, Kansas, with the Laboratory Assistant / Clinical Research Specialist stationed just off the clinic floor. The role involves frequent movement between the clinic floor and the adjacent laboratory area to support ongoing studies and sample processing. The environment is fast-paced and highly regulated, with a strong emphasis on compliance, quality, and safety in all laboratory and clinical activities. The standard shift is Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with some flexibility required depending on study schedules and protocol-driven timed events. Team members work with standard laboratory equipment, including centrifuges and pipettes, and use computer systems and office software such as MS Word, Excel, and Outlook for documentation and communication.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Overland Park, KS.

The pay range for this position is $19.50 - $22.00/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 Overland Park,KS.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 18, 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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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.