Lab Technician - Processor - 257108

Medix™; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Medix™ in Chicago seeks a detail-oriented Sample Preparation Laboratory Technician to join the early stage of our analysis pipeline. You will process environmental samples, perform multi-step separations, and prepare materials for microscopic evaluation.

This hands-on role emphasizes precision, meticulous record-keeping, and the ability to work in a controlled cleanroom. Advanced analytical instruments are not required, with workload: 1-2 sample sets weekly.

Qualifications

• Hands-on general laboratory operations and sample preparation.
• High manual dexterity and keen visual attention to detail for delicate handling.
• Familiarity with benchtop lab equipment (centrifuges, sonicators, ovens, basic optical microscopes).
• Excellent organizational skills with detailed, accurate note-taking.
• Comfort working inside a controlled cleanroom setting for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Receive samples and perform multi-step physical separations using fluids, sonicators, centrifuges, drying ovens, and thermal processing.
• Utilize manual dexterity to spread sample components into thin, uniform layers for microscopic evaluation.
• Maintain thorough lab notebooks and update electronic records for every sample set processed.
• Evaluate sample variations and adjust preparation techniques according to SOPs.
• Perform cleaning and decontamination of equipment and workstations to prevent cross-contamination in a cleanroom.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Attention to detail

Record-keeping

Laboratory operations

Tools

Centrifuges

Sonicators

Ovens

Optical microscopes

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented Sample Preparation Laboratory Technician to join our team in the crucial initial stage of our analysis pipeline. This role focuses on processing, separating, and preparing environmental collection debris for downstream observation.

This position is ideal for candidates who enjoy hands-on, general laboratory work emphasizing high precision, manual dexterity, and meticulous record-keeping rather than automated high-throughput instrumentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Sample Processing & Separation: Receive environmental collection samples and perform multi-step physical separations using fluids, sonicators, centrifuges, drying ovens, and thermal processing (burning/ashing).
• Microscopic Preparation & Observation: Utilize manual dexterity to spread sample components into thin, uniform layers across substrates for basic microscopic evaluation and physical characterization.
• Documentation & Data Integrity: Maintain thorough, detailed lab notebooks and update electronic records for every sample set processed.
• Procedure Adaptation: Evaluate incoming sample variations and appropriately adjust preparation techniques according to established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Quality & Cleanroom Maintenance: Perform rigorous cleaning and decontamination of equipment and workstations between sample runs to prevent cross-contamination in a cleanroom environment.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Strong interest in hands-on general laboratory operations and sample preparation.
• High manual dexterity and keen visual attention to detail for delicate physical handling.
• Familiarity with standard benchtop lab equipment (centrifuges, sonicators, ovens, basic optical microscopes).
• Excellent organizational skills with a strong habit of detailed, accurate note-taking.
• Comfort working inside a controlled cleanroom setting for extended periods.
• Note: Advanced analytical experience (e.g., HPLC, GC) is not required for this role.
• Workload: Low volume, high precision (typically 1-2 sample sets per week, with 4-5 samples per set).
• Split: ~70% hands-on cleanroom processing; ~30% desk work (record keeping, documentation, and data entry).