Title: Lab Technician
Location: Columbia MD
Contract: 1 year
Shift: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (flexibility available upon completion of training)
Education: No requirement on Education – No HSD Required
Additional Physical Fit Testing Required – YES
Interview Process: Teams/In person
Columbia R&D Operations Lab Technician Job Description
Professional Summary:
The Columbia R&D Operations Lab Support role is a hands-on position within a professional laboratory environment, focused on supporting the cleaning, upkeep, and operational readiness of fermenter systems through routine cleaning and preventive maintenance activities. This role emphasizes adherence to safety standards and standard work documents to ensure reliable, compliant, and efficient lab operations.
In addition to core equipment support, the position plays a key role in maintaining overall laboratory functionality by executing autoclave sterilization and validation cycles, supporting facilities operations, and ensuring proper inventory management and supply availability. Success in this role requires strong teamwork and collaboration with cross-functional partners, attention to detail, and a proactive commitment to fostering a safe, organized, and high-performing laboratory environment.
General Requirements
Standard work hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (flexibility available upon completion of training)
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours)
Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and standard work documents
Education: High school diploma not required
Roles and Responsibilities
Lab Technician Responsibilities
Lab Technicians are responsible for following established processes and executing tasks as directed by the onsite Columbia R&D Operations Manager while maintaining a safe and professional laboratory environment.
Cleaning Services
Clean and maintain laboratory glassware
Perform thorough cleaning of fermenters (vessels and headplates)
Clean and sanitize laboratory equipment
Maintain general lab cleanliness to support a safe, organized, and compliant workspace
Fermenter Maintenance
Support routine preventive maintenance activities to ensure optimal equipment performance
Perform tubing replacement as required
Assist with seal assembly and impeller replacement
Conduct pressure relief valve testing and replacement
Perform probe calibration
Site Support Services
Provide operational support across the site, working collaboratively with cross-functional teams:
Autoclave Operations: Execute sterilization cycles, perform validation of autoclave processes, and conduct kill-run cycles to ensure effective decontamination and compliance with operational standards
Facilities Support: Partner with the Facilities team to perform routine inspections and reconcile stockroom inventory, ensuring accuracy, organization, and operational readiness
Restock laboratory supplies to maintain appropriate inventory levels
Support bulk autoclave cycles as needed
Assist with consumables ordering and inventory tracking
Perform additional duties as assigned based on operational needs
Core Competencies
Strong commitment to safety and adherence to SOPs
Attention to detail and ability to follow standardized processes
Teamwork and collaboration across departments
Organizational skills and ability to maintain a clean, efficient work environment
Reliability and proactive approach to supporting lab operations