Sample Disposal Technician

AmSpec Group LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

AmSpec Group LLC in Houston, TX seeks a dependable Sample Disposal Technician to support safe handling, organization, and disposal of laboratory samples. You will verify disposal eligibility, ensure records are complete, and keep storage and disposal areas clean and compliant.

The role requires following approved procedures, maintaining logs in LIMS, coordinating with sample receiving and QA, and reporting concerns promptly.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a laboratory, sample receiving, warehouse, or waste handling role preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to accurate recordkeeping.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with LIMS or inventory systems is a plus.
• Ability to understand written procedures, container labels, and safety instructions.
• Clear communication skills, dependable attendance, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Verify disposal eligibility: Confirm that required sample retention periods have been met, disposal approval is documented, and samples are not needed for pending testing, reanalysis, or other holds.
• Collect and handle samples: Retrieve approved samples, including water, soil, and other environmental materials, and move them safely to designated disposal areas.
• Follow approved disposal procedures: Separate samples and related waste into designated waste streams according to laboratory procedures. Keep incompatible materials separate and perform disposal activities only within assigned training and authorization.
• Maintain accurate records: Record sample identification, disposal dates, and other required information in the laboratory information management system (LIMS) or designated logs.
• Organize storage areas: Maintain orderly sample shelves, refrigerators, freezers, and disposal staging areas. Keep walkways and access to equipment clear.
• Prepare waste for removal: Ensure designated waste containers are properly labeled, closed, and stored. Assist with waste collection and pickup arrangements as assigned.
• Coordinate with laboratory departments: Work with Sample Receiving, analysts, supervisors, and Quality Assurance to resolve questions about sample status before disposal.
• Report concerns promptly: Notify the supervisor of leaking containers, unidentified samples, damaged packaging, spills, storage capacity concerns, or discrepancies in disposal records.
• Follow safety requirements: Use required personal protective equipment and complete assigned training in sample handling, waste management, and laboratory safety.

Job description

We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Sample Disposal Technician to support the safe handling, organization, and disposal of laboratory samples. This position is responsible for verifying that samples are authorized for disposal, maintaining accurate records, and keeping sample storage and disposal areas clean and organized. The ideal candidate follows instructions carefully, works well with laboratory personnel, and takes ownership of assigned tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Verify disposal eligibility: Confirm that required sample retention periods have been met, disposal approval is documented, and samples are not needed for pending testing, reanalysis, or other holds.
• Collect and handle samples: Retrieve approved samples, including water, soil, and other environmental materials, and move them safely to designated disposal areas.
• Follow approved disposal procedures: Separate samples and related waste into designated waste streams according to laboratory procedures. Keep incompatible materials separate and perform disposal activities only within assigned training and authorization.
• Maintain accurate records: Record sample identification, disposal dates, and other required information in the laboratory information management system (LIMS) or designated logs.
• Organize storage areas: Maintain orderly sample shelves, refrigerators, freezers, and disposal staging areas. Keep walkways and access to equipment clear.
• Prepare waste for removal: Ensure designated waste containers are properly labeled, closed, and stored. Assist with waste collection and pickup arrangements as assigned.
• Coordinate with laboratory departments: Work with Sample Receiving, analysts, supervisors, and Quality Assurance to resolve questions about sample status before disposal.
• Report concerns promptly: Notify the supervisor of leaking containers, unidentified samples, damaged packaging, spills, storage capacity concerns, or discrepancies in disposal records.
• Follow safety requirements: Use required personal protective equipment and complete assigned training in sample handling, waste management, and laboratory safety.

Required Experience

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a laboratory, sample receiving, warehouse, or waste handling role preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to accurate recordkeeping.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with LIMS or inventory systems is a plus.
• Ability to understand written procedures, container labels, and safety instructions.
• Clear communication skills, dependable attendance, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

This position involves work in laboratory, sample storage, and designated waste handling areas. Duties include regular standing, walking, bending, and moving sample containers using appropriate equipment or assistance. Essential duties must be performed safely, with or without reasonable accommodation.