Laboratory Intern

STAQ Pharma; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 2,066,000 - 3,031,000; Part time

Job summary

STAQ Pharma in Columbus, OH is seeking a Laboratory Intern to support routine laboratory operations under supervision. The role focuses on sample preparation, receipt, cleaning, inventory, documentation, and general testing support in a regulated pharmaceutical environment.

The position emphasizes attention to detail, willingness to learn, reliable follow-through, and adherence to SOPs, cGMP, and safety practices in a fast-paced lab.

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail; follow instructions and complete documentation accurately.
• Willingness to learn laboratory techniques, cGMP expectations, SOPs, and quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist with receipt, labeling, organization, and preparation of laboratory samples.
• Prepare media, reagents, dilutions, and supplies for routine lab activities according to procedures.
• Support routine laboratory testing by setting up materials, cleaning work areas, and documenting observations.
• Assist with environmental monitoring support activities and plate handling when trained.
• Observe compendial lab methods, aseptic practices, and contamination control expectations.

Skills

Communication

Attention to Detail

Learning Agility

Organization

Problem Escalation

Teamwork

Compliance Mindset

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate's or Bachelor's in relevant science (preferred)

Job description

Job Summary

The Laboratory Intern supports routine laboratory operations in a regulated facility by assisting trained laboratory personnel with sample preparation, sample receipt, laboratory cleaning, inventory control, documentation, and general testing support. This role is intended to provide hands-on experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory while reinforcing good documentation practices, laboratory safety, aseptic technique, contamination control, GLP and cGMP expectations.

Job Summary

The Laboratory Intern supports routine laboratory operations in a regulated facility by assisting trained laboratory personnel with sample preparation, sample receipt, laboratory cleaning, inventory control, documentation, and general testing support. This role is intended to provide hands-on experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory while reinforcing good documentation practices, laboratory safety, aseptic technique, contamination control, GLP and cGMP expectations.

The position requires strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, reliable follow-through, and the ability to work under supervision in a fast-paced and highly regulated laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

Laboratory Support & Sample Preparation

• Assist with receipt, labeling, organization, and preparation of laboratory samples under the direction of qualified laboratory personnel.
• Prepare media, reagents, dilutions, and supplies for routine laboratory activities according to approved procedures and training status.
• Support routine laboratory testing activities by setting up materials, cleaning work areas, and documenting observations as instructed.
• Assist with environmental monitoring support activities, sample staging, and plate handling when appropriately trained.
• Observe and learn compendial laboratory methods, aseptic practices, and contamination control expectations.
• Perform basic laboratory housekeeping, supply stocking, and waste disposal in accordance with SOPs and safety requirements.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Data Review, Documentation & Compliance

• Complete assigned documentation in accordance with Good Documentation principles and applicable SOPs.
• Enter, verify, and organize laboratory data as directed by qualified laboratory personnel.
• Promptly communicate errors, atypical observations, safety concerns, or potential deviations to the manager or lab personnel.
• Follow SOPs, work instructions, and training requirements by appropriate personnel.
• Maintain accurate laboratory logs, cleaning records, inventory records, and training documentation as assigned.
• Support audit readiness by keeping laboratory areas, records, and supplies organized and inspection ready.
  
  

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

• Assist with basic equipment setup, cleaning, and routine checks for instruments such as pH meters, balances, incubators, refrigerators/freezers, biological safety cabinets, and other laboratory equipment as trained.
• Document equipment usage and cleaning activities according to approved procedures.
• Monitor and record temperatures, equipment status, and supply conditions as assigned.
• Escalate equipment alarms, malfunctions, or unusual observations to qualified laboratory personnel or manager.
  
  

Quality, Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory workspace while following aseptic technique, contamination control practices, and good housekeeping expectations.
• Comply with laboratory safety policies, including proper PPE use, chemical handling, biological material handling, and waste disposal requirements.
• Participate in training, job shadowing, and supervised skill development activities.
• Support continuous improvement activities and cross-functional projects as assigned.
  
  

Required Skills/Abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to Detail: Able to follow instructions carefully and accurately complete assigned documentation.
• Learning Agility: Willingness to learn laboratory techniques, cGMP expectations, SOPs, and quality system requirements.
• Organization: Maintains orderly work areas, records, samples, and supplies.
• Problem Escalation: Recognizes and promptly communicates errors, unusual observations, or safety concerns.
• Teamwork: Works effectively with laboratory personnel, quality, manufacturing, and other cross-functional partners.
• Compliance Mindset: Demonstrates integrity, confidentiality, and commitment to data accuracy and patient safety.
  
  

Education And Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; current enrollment in or completion of coursework toward an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medical Laboratory Science, or a related scientific discipline preferred.
• Previous laboratory, academic lab, pharmacy, healthcare, manufacturing, or quality experience preferred but not required.
• Basic understanding of laboratory safety, scientific measurements, and aseptic technique preferred.
• Ability to learn and follow SOPs, cGMP requirements, and good documentation practices.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry; experience with LIMS/ELN platforms preferred.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods while performing laboratory procedures.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. (media, solvent containers, equipment parts).
• Work performed in controlled laboratory environments.
• Position may require occasional weekend, holiday, or off-shift work depending on laboratory needs.