Entry Bio Lab Technician
1 day ago
South Plainfield
Job DescriptionJob Title: Lab Technician Job Description This Lab Technician role focuses on molecular biology and genomics, supporting high-throughput DNA sequencing and sample quality control in a fast-paced laboratory environment. You will perform nucleic acid extractions, qPCR, and next-generation sequencing workflows while maintaining rigorous standards, accurate documentation, and strong communication with internal teams and external customers. Responsibilities • Independently carry out nucleic acid extractions from a variety of sample types., • Perform quantitative PCR (qPCR) set-up, run assays, and analyze resulting data., • Prepare libraries for high-throughput and next-generation DNA sequencing., • Operate next-generation DNA analyzers to carry out DNA sequencing runs., • Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of DNA analyzers and related laboratory equipment., • Monitor, check, and replenish inventory of consumable sequencing supplies to ensure continuous operations., • Conduct sample quality control work to ensure integrity and suitability for downstream applications., • Document laboratory activities accurately and maintain organized records in accordance with standard laboratory processes and SOPs., • Communicate with customers by phone and email in a friendly, professional, and service-oriented manner., • Follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and contribute to the development and improvement of SOPs as needed., • Collaborate closely with supervisors and colleagues as an effective team player committed to shared laboratory and company goals., • Support production workflows for next-generation sequencing and related molecular biology services in a timely and precise manner., • Adhere to regulatory and quality expectations, especially when working under CLIA/CAP, GLP, GMP, or GCP-aligned processes where applicable.Essential Skills, • Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, or a closely related biological discipline., • BS in Biological sciences or molecular biology (required)., • At least 1+ years of biological laboratory experience., • Demonstrated pipetting proficiency, including accurate manual pipetting for high-throughput workflows., • Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid extraction and DNA handling., • Familiarity with DNA sequencing processes and workflows., • Experience with quantitative PCR (qPCR) set-up and data analysis., • Knowledge of standard laboratory processes and good laboratory practices., • Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with high attention to detail., • Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with colleagues and customers., • Proficiency with computer programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint., • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team-focused environment., • High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail in all laboratory and documentation tasks., • Ability and willingness to work 2nd shift hours (approximately 4:00 pm–12:00 am / 3:30 pm–12:00 am as scheduled).Additional Skills & Qualifications, • Experience working in a regulatory environment such as CLIA/CAP, GLP, GMP, and/or GCP is highly desirable., • Background in genomics, molecular biology, biology, or microbiology., • Experience as a lab technician, lab assistant, or similar laboratory role., • Familiarity with next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows and technologies., • Experience with sample quality control (QC) procedures., • Comfort with production-oriented lab work in a high-throughput setting., • Ability to assist in developing and refining Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs)., • Demonstrated ability to manage lab inventory and perform data entry accurately., • Detail-oriented mindset, with the ability to maintain focus in a fast-paced environment.Work Environment This role is based in a leading global genomics service laboratory that provides DNA sequencing, gene synthesis, molecular biology, next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics, and GLP regulatory services. The lab supports customers who rely on rapid, cost-effective results delivered through specialized expertise and customizable, scalable services. You will work in a fast-paced, production-focused environment alongside a team of approximately 70 people in the lab, including a dedicated team of about seven colleagues on your shift with a shift lead. The culture emphasizes serious, focused work with a collaborative atmosphere that can be laid back at times, while maintaining a strong commitment to getting the job done accurately and on schedule. The position is on 2nd shift, typically around 3:30 pm–12:00 am with a one-hour lunch break. New hires receive about one month of training on 1st shift (approximately 9:00 am–5:00 pm), including an initial week of orientation, introductions, and shadowing trainers, followed by weeks of hands-on implementation in the lab. You will work with next-generation DNA analyzers and related equipment, performing routine maintenance and using standard laboratory tools and software in a regulated, process-driven environment. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ. Pay and Benefits 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) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in SOUTH PLAINFIELD,NJ. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 17, 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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.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.