Lab Technician II or III

Switch Bioworks is a deep tech company engineering microbes to replace energy‑intensive, fossil fuel‑dependent industrial processes. The team is currently focused on nitrogen fertilizer, a critical input for global food production, by enabling microbes to manufacture nitrogen directly at the plant root rather than in chemical plants. Switch’s proprietary genetic switches separate microbial growth from production, turning living cells into programmable factories that activate on demand in nature. The company is building a platform for distributed biological manufacturing, starting with agriculture and expanding to broader industrial applications. Switch Bioworks offers applicants the opportunity to help build transformational biotechnology at the intersection of synthetic biology, sustainability, and scalable manufacturing.

The Role

We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Lab Technician II/III to support daily lab operations, maintain critical infrastructure, and prepare essential materials. In this hands‑on role, you will work closely with our scientific team to keep our facilities running safely, efficiently, and seamlessly.

At Switch you will:

Perform routine glassware washing, sorting, and distribution across lab spaces.

Operate and maintain autoclaves for sterilization of laboratory media, solutions, and waste.

Prepare microbial growth media, buffers, and stock solutions following standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Manage laboratory waste streams, including biohazard waste collection, processing, and disposal compliance.

Assist the Lab Operations Manager with routine equipment maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting.

Support inventory management by receiving incoming shipments, stocking supplies, and tracking consumable usage.

Support R&D initiatives by assisting with the execution of experimental workflows as required.

Assist with various lab operations tasks and general lab maintenance to ensure a safe, clean, and organized workplace.

Oversee monthly deep‑cleaning schedules for growrooms to maintain operational cleanliness and prevent cross‑contamination.

Promote a culture of lab safety.

Work both independently and in team settings.

Required qualifications:

BS or AS degree in biology, chemistry, life sciences, or a related field with 2+ years of hands‑on laboratory experience (title adjusted to experience).

Demonstrated experience with glassware maintenance, autoclave operation, and media preparation.

Familiarity with chemical handling, aseptic technique, and standard lab safety protocols.

Experience supporting lab operations, inventory control, or equipment maintenance in a biotech or academic setting.

Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving ability, and organizational skills.

Excellent oral and written communication skills.

US work authorization + ability to work full‑time on‑site in San Carlos, CA.

Ability to stand for extended periods, regularly lift up to 25 lbs, and occasionally lift up to 40 lbs to move lab supplies, waste carboys, biological waste, or heavy receiving boxes using appropriate equipment, with or without reasonable accommodation.

You're a Great Fit If You Are:

Self‑motivated: You give a damn and push projects forward independently.

Accountable: You own your results—successes and failures.

Resilient & growth‑minded: You embrace challenges and grow from feedback.

Purpose‑driven: You care about building solutions that will create impact.

Collaborative: You work well across teams and want to contribute to a shared mission.

Detail‑oriented & proactive: You take pride in maintaining an organized environment and anticipating operational needs before they arise.

A strong communicator: You articulate ideas clearly and respectfully in a team setting.

Hard‑working: You go the extra mile when needed.

Schedule & Location: Full‑time, non‑exempt hourly position (~40 hours per week, Monday–Friday), located on‑site in San Carlos, CA.

Hourly Range: $28.00 – $37.00

We're excited to hear from you!