Laboratory Assistant

Planet Pharma; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma is seeking an entry-level Histology/ Laboratory Assistant in San Diego, CA. The role involves tissue sectioning, H&E staining support, and image processing within the Assay Research and Development team.

Candidates should have a high school diploma and 0-2 years of lab experience, with preferred histology coursework and strong attention to detail. Onsite duties include pipetting, protocol following, and general lab support.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 0-2 years of laboratory experience; entry-level candidates may be considered.
• Hands-on lab experience with pipettes and basic techniques; accurate labeling and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Perform microtome sectioning of FFPE tissue samples.
• Assist with H&E staining and slide preparation.
• Operate slide-imaging equipment and manage image-processing workflows.
• Organize and track tissue samples, slides, reagents, and supplies.
• Maintain lab organization, inventory, and documentation.

Skills

Histology

Biology

Molecular biology

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Pipettes

Job description

High school diploma or equivalent required. Histology training or coursework in biology or molecular biology preferred.

0-2 years of laboratory experience. Entry-level candidates with relevant histology, biology, or molecular biology coursework may be considered. Previous tissue sectioning or histology experience is strongly preferred.

Basic laboratory experience with hands-on experience using pipettes and basic laboratory techniques through employment, coursework, an internship, or a laboratory training program; ability to follow detailed written protocols, strong attention to detail; accurate sample labeling and documentation; basic computer proficiency; ability to perform repetitive, precision-based tasks consistently; and reliable onsite attendance.

Candidates should also have either direct experience with tissue sectioning or a demonstrated aptitude for fine-motor, detail-oriented laboratory work and willingness to be trained.

We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented individual to support histology and laboratory operations within the Assay Research and Development team.

Key responsibilities

• Perform microtome sectioning of FFPE tissue samples
• Support H&E staining of tissue slides
• Operate slide-imaging equipment and manage image-processing workflows
• Organize and track tissue samples, slides, reagents, and laboratory supplies
• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and documentation
• Follow established protocols and accurately document completed work
• Assist with routine equipment maintenance and general laboratory support activities
• Depending on experience and training, assist with PCR, sequencing, and other molecular biology workflows
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Hands-on laboratory experience through employment, coursework, or other training
• Experience using pipets and basic laboratory skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures
• Basic computer skills and willingness to learn laboratory software workflows
• Ability to work onsite and perform routine laboratory tasks safely and reliably

Preferred qualifications

• Histology experience, including tissue sectioning, H&E staining, and imaging
• Experience with PCR, next-generation sequencing or other molecular biology workflows
• Experience maintaining laboratory inventories and organized workspaces