Laboratory Technician I

Ward Laboratories Inc; Kearney (NE); On-site; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Ward Laboratories Inc is seeking a Lab Technician I to conduct analytical testing and routine QC tasks across customer samples. You will record results, communicate findings, and maintain equipment per SOPs.

The role requires strong attention to detail, safety adherence, and ability to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision. Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent; a Bachelor's in biology, chemistry, or related field is preferred and experience in a lab is a plus.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's degree in biology/chemistry or related field preferred.
• Experience in a laboratory setting is a plus.
• Must be able to read and understand SOP documents.

Responsibilities

• Perform tests and analysis per established procedures.
• Perform quality control tasks and evaluate results.
• Record test results and report to Ward Program after each cycle.
• Plan and organize work to meet deadlines.
• Perform preventive maintenance per manufacturer’s standards.
• Troubleshoot equipment and report major issues.
• Maintain equipment and tools and ensure safe operations.
• Identify bottlenecks and suggest process improvements.
• Work on multiple projects with minimal reorientation.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong communication

Team leadership

Problem-solving

Initiative

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in biology/chemistry or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Description

Job Purpose: The basic function of the Lab Technician is to perform assigned scientific analytical and testing procedures for customer samples. This includes performance of in-process quality control procedures, transmission of data and routine maintenance of equipment.

Essential Job Results:

Operational Responsibilities

• Perform tests and analysis processes in accordance with established procedures.
• Perform quality control tasks, effectively evaluate results and take appropriate corrective action to ensure control within predefined limits.
• Accurately record test results and communicate results to the “Ward Program” upon completion of each test cycle.
• Plan and organize work routines effectively to maximize productivity and meet established deadlines.
• Perform preventive maintenance on schedule to manufacturer’s standards.
• Troubleshoot equipment and perform routine repairs to manufacturer’s standards. Report problems that entail major repairs or replacement promptly.
• Document all equipment maintenance in accordance with established procedure.
• Communicate openly regarding bottlenecks in processes. Recommend alternative methods to improve procedures.
• Actively pursue available training in the skills outlined on the Skills Matrix to maximize personal versatility and skill levels. Work with the Team Supervisors to determine the appropriate training and training methods
• Identify strategies and objectives for productivity improvement, whether related to people, equipment, or creativity.
• Has the authority to evaluate conditions and stop procedures if safety or quality is compromised.
• Work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Switch from one project to the next and back with little or no reorientation necessary.
• Use laboratory supplies efficiently, minimizing waste.
• Maintain equipment and tools needed to perform tasks.
• Work safely at all times, always observing company safety rules and promote safe work practices throughout the company facility. Report unsafe practices or conditions to the QA/QC Manager.
• Keep the work area clean and clear of all potential hazards at all times.

Specific Responsibilities – Laboratory Technician I

• Performs tests and analysis with minimal guidance.
• Performs routine work related to the preparation of samples for analysis.
• Performs entry level laboratory tasks with limited complexity of SOPs.
• When given the opportunity, periodically shadowing of Lab Tech II, III, or Senior to gain a better understanding of operations and analysis in department.

External Relationship Responsibilities

• Assists in promoting the organization through participation in community events, media campaigns, and other public relations activities.
• Align and aspire: positively promote the organization by aligning with company values and mission. Aspire to obtain an in-depth knowledge of organization, industry, and its customers

Success Factors

• Strong leadership skills based on confidence, competence, and ability to provide mentoring and support to others.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communications skills, with ability to work with a wide variety of individuals and personalities in an honest way that exhibits integrity.
• A strategic thinker who helps develop necessary steps to insure efficiency and accuracy in our sample process department specifically in the Lab
• A positive attitude and strong work ethic with the ability to work effectively within the values, structure, and mission of the organization.
• Excellent organization skills as there are many deadlines and multiple responsibilities.
• Must have an extensive technical understanding of the testing methods and equipment.
• Detail oriented and able to perform high quality work to exacting procedures.
• Excellent organization and problem-solving skills.
• Must be able to take initiative to organize work routines to work productively during high and low volume periods.
• He or she must also be able to take initiative to organize work routines to work productively during both high and low volume periods.

Requirements

Specific Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent, Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or closely related field in preferred.
• Experience in a laboratory setting a plus.
• Must be able to read and understand documents related to standard procedures.
• Knowledge and skill with basic computing in a Microsoft environment.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds on a routine basis.
• Must be able to sit, walk, stand for extended periods of time
• Must be able to perform quick fine motor movements for extended periods to work with small and/or intricate scientific equipment including pipettes, scales, scoops, and microscopes.
• Interim position that is held as a 3 – 4 months upon hire.
• Perform entry level laboratory tasks with minimal supervision