cGMP Flow Cytometry Specialized Laboratory Technician

University of Southern California; Glendale (CA); On-site; USD 71,386 - 74,984; Full time

Job summary

University of Southern California (USC) Keck School of Medicine seeks a Flow Cytometry Specialized Lab Technician for a cGMP facility. You will develop and execute multiparametric flow cytometry assays to support cell and gene therapy product testing, including sample prep, staining, instrument setup, QC, data acquisition, and basic analysis.

You will maintain equipment, follow SOPs, document results, and train researchers while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance in a dynamic team

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Science or Biotechnology required.
• Two years of cell therapy development experience preferred.
• Experience with flow cytometry principles, compensation, gating, and fluorophore selection.

Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and execute multiparametric flow cytometry assays for immune phenotyping and QC testing.
• Perform cell culture activities, panel setup, staining optimization, and data review.
• Maintain samples, track labeling, and ensure proper documentation.
• Operate and maintain flow cytometers, perform calibration and routine maintenance.
• Train students and investigators in specialized techniques; assist in protocol development.
• Ensure compliance with SOPs, QA, and safety standards.
• Organize data in databases/spreadsheets and monitor inventory.

Skills

Flow cytometry

Multiparametric panel setup

Antibody staining

Instrument operation

Data analysis

SOPs & QA

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biological Science or Biotechnology

Master’s degree

Tools

Flow cytometer

Cytometry software

Job description

Overview

The University of Southern California (USC) Keck School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, is seeking a Flow Cytometry Specialized Lab Technician in the university's cGMP facility. The role focuses on the development and execution of multiparametric flow cytometry assays to support testing and characterization of cell and gene therapy products, including sample preparation, antibody staining, instrument setup and daily quality control, data acquisition, and basic data analysis. The position also involves maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment and ensuring strict adherence to SOPs, documentation practices, and quality control requirements.

Job Accountabilities

• Assist in the design, optimization, and execution of multiparametric flow cytometry assays for immune phenotyping, cell characterization, and quality control testing.
• Perform flow cytometry procedures and related cell culture activities, including cell handling and culture, panel setup, antibody titration, staining optimization, and data review, with understanding of immune cell populations and marker biology.
• Handle samples including collection, processing, storage, and tracking for flow cytometry analysis; maintain accurate records and ensure proper labeling and tracking.
• Perform daily instrument startup, calibration, compensation setup, and routine maintenance of flow cytometers; support troubleshooting and ensure consistent instrument performance.
• Train investigators and students in specialized laboratory techniques; provide technical consulting; assist in protocol or policy development.
• Perform other specialized laboratory tests as appropriate.
• Comply with quality control policies and procedures and maintain required documentation.
• Maintain a safe laboratory environment in accordance with standards, policies, and safety regulations; ensure compliance with infection control policies.
• Handle and dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous materials per safety protocols.
• Create and maintain databases and/or spreadsheets to manage and process information or data.
• May supervise unit employees and/or student workers; train and provide instruction; schedule and prioritize workloads; set goals and deadlines; oversee progress of projects for staff and student workers.
• Assist in budget preparation by gathering historical data in limited areas, track expenditures, and report variances.
• Organize and maintain supplies; monitor inventory levels; maintain records of supplies and equipment; prepare purchase orders; advise on equipment upgrades and acquisitions.
• Stay informed of developments in the field by reading journals and attending professional meetings and seminars as appropriate.
• Perform other related duties as assigned; the university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Successful Candidates Must Demonstrate

Degree in a directly related specialized scientific field (preferred in immunology). Prior strong hands-on experience in flow cytometry, including multiparametric panel setup, antibody staining, instrument operation, and basic data analysis. Demonstrated knowledge of flow cytometry principles such as compensation, fluorophore selection, gating strategies, and immune cell subset identification. Familiarity with cytometry analysis software and standard laboratory documentation practices. Strong communication and writing skills with demonstrated ability to work as an individual contributor and in a dynamic team environment.

Salary and Employment Details

Salary range: $34.32 - $36.05/hr. When extending an offer of employment, USC considers factors such as scope and responsibilities, candidate experience, education/training, key skills, internal equity, applicable laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, and market considerations.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position.

Minimum and Preferred Qualifications

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree in Biological Science or Biotechnology

Minimum Experience: 2 years in cell therapy development

Minimum Skills: Proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment used in cGMP manufacturing and quality control testing; strong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs and QA principles; excellent communication and teamwork skills; ability to troubleshoot technical issues; knowledge of regulatory requirements and guidelines (e.g., FDA, EMA) related to cGMP.

Preferred Education: Master’s degree

Preferred Experience: 3 years in cell therapy development

Job ID: REQ20173039

Posted Date: 07/16/2026

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