Lab Technician II or III

Astanor Ventures; California (MO); On-site; USD 39,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Switch Bioworks is seeking a proactive Lab Technician II/III to support daily lab operations, maintain infrastructure, and prepare essential materials at our San Carlos, CA site. This hands-on role involves working with our scientific team to keep facilities safe, efficient, and organized.

You will perform glassware washing, autoclave operation, media prep, inventory tracking, and assist with R&D workflows as needed.

Qualifications

• BS or AS degree in biology, chemistry, life sciences, or a related field.
• 2+ years of hands-on laboratory experience.
• Glassware maintenance, autoclave operation, and media preparation experience.
• Familiarity with chemical handling, aseptic technique, and standard lab safety protocols.
• Experience supporting lab operations, inventory control, or equipment maintenance in biotech or academic setting.
• 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, lift up to 25 lbs and occasionally up to 40 lbs.

Responsibilities

• 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 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 shipments, stocking supplies, and tracking consumable usage.
• Support R&D initiatives by assisting with the execution of experimental workflows as required.
• 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.

Skills

Glassware maintenance

Autoclave operation

Media preparation

Lab operations

Inventory control

Safety protocols

Communication skills

Education

BS or AS degree in biology, chemistry, life sciences, or related field

Tools

Autoclave (equipment)

Job description

Lab Technician II or III

About Switch Bioworks

At Switch Bioworks, we're on a mission to feed the world sustainably by using synthetic biology to engineer beneficial soil microbes—replacing chemical nitrogen fertilizers with a green, cost-effective alternative. We are a purpose-driven, science-backed biotech startup powered by a diverse, collaborative, and inclusive global team.

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!