Lab Aide 1

Planet Pharma; Foster City (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma in Foster City, CA seeks a detail-oriented Lab Aide I (Accessioner) to support daily clinical laboratory operations. You will handle receipt, documentation, and processing of incoming specimens to support downstream testing.

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong organizational skills and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, quality-driven lab while adhering to procedures and safety requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow detailed lab procedures.
• Comfortable handling clinical specimens, including blood samples.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to learn laboratory workflows and quality requirements.

Responsibilities

• Receive, inspect, document, and process incoming specimens per procedures.
• Perform specimen accessioning: identification, labeling, data entry into LIMS.
• Support specimen sorting, preparation, and processing for downstream workflows.
• Maintain accurate sample records and documentation.
• Identify discrepancies and escalate issues.
• Follow safety SOPs and quality requirements.
• Support daily lab operations and equipment maintenance.
• Complete required training and competency assessments.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Written and verbal communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Prioritization

Education

High school diploma

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Biology or Life Sciences

Tools

LIMS

Job description

Target PR Range:20.25-25.25/hr DOE

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Lab Aide I (Accessioner) to support daily clinical laboratory operations at our Foster City facility. This position is responsible for the accurate and timely receipt, documentation, and processing of incoming clinical laboratory specimens to support downstream testing activities.

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, quality-driven laboratory environment while adhering to established procedures and safety requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive, inspect, document, and process incoming clinical laboratory specimens according to established procedures and work instructions.
• Perform sample accessioning activities, including specimen identification, labeling, and accurate data entry into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Support specimen sorting, preparation, and processing activities to ensure timely delivery to downstream laboratory workflows.
• Maintain accurate sample records and ensure adherence to specimen handling, tracking, and documentation requirements.
• Identify specimen discrepancies, documentation errors, or processing issues and escrow concerns appropriately.
• Follow established laboratory safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and quality requirements.
• Support daily laboratory operations, including organization of workspaces, maintenance of equipment, and general laboratory support activities.
• Complete required training and competency assessments within established timelines.
• Collaborate effectively with team members, laboratory personnel, and cross-functional departments to support daily operational goals.
• Participate in laboratory process improvements and additional support activities as directed by laboratory management.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow detailed laboratory procedures and written instructions.
• Comfortable handling and processing clinical specimens, including blood samples.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet operational deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented laboratory environment.
• Willingness to learn laboratory workflows, systems, and quality requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Biology, Life Sciences, or a related scientific field.
• At least one year of laboratory experience, preferably in a clinical, diagnostic, or laboratory operations environment.
• Familiarity with sample accessioning, specimen handling, or laboratory sample processing.
• Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or other laboratory documentation systems.
• Previous experience working in a regulated laboratory environment.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work on-site in Foster City, California, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Ability to perform repetitive, detail-oriented tasks while maintaining accuracy and productivity.
• Commitment to laboratory safety, quality standards, and timely completion of assigned responsibilities.