Lab Technician 2 (Part-Time)

ABDA Labs | Austin, TX | Part-Time
Compensation: $22-25/hour

Why Work Here

Join ABDA Labs as one of the founding team members launching our Austin clinical laboratory. We're building something from the ground up - validating cutting-edge molecular and chemistry platforms to deliver faster, more affordable testing to functional medicine clinics and wellness practices across Central Texas. Part-time position with full-time growth opportunity for the right candidate. When other labs take days, we deliver results the same day. Your expertise will directly shape how we operate, and in a small team, your voice actually matters.

Problems You'll Solve

Validation Execution: Execute hands-on validation of multiple analytical platforms (AU680 chemistry analyzer, PentraXL80R hematology, proprietary immunoassay system) to achieve CLIA compliance and launch clinical testing services within 3-4 months.

Method Optimization: Assist in R&D for method optimization for reagents on the AU680 chemistry  platform. 

Quality Support: Help establish quality control procedures and documentation standards from day one, supporting the Lab Manager in building a compliant, high-performing laboratory.

Operational Excellence: Support high-volume sample processing across molecular, chemistry, and immunoassay platforms to meet our <24 hour turnaround commitments to clinic partners.

Instrument Maintenance: Learn our core testing platforms thoroughly and take ownership of daily maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration to keep operations running smoothly.

What You'll Do

Validation Execution (50%)

• Validate chemistry assays on AU680 using proprietary reagents
• Optimize and characterize novel chemistry assays on AU680 
• Complete hematology validation on PentraXL80R analyzer
• Validate proprietary immunoassay platform for hormone and wellness testing
• Perform accuracy, precision, linearity, and reference range studies
• Document all validation data with meticulous attention to regulatory compliance
• Operate Tecan EVO liquid handler for automated sample preparation

Sample Processing & Testing (30%)

• Process patient samples across molecular, chemistry, hematology, and immunoassay platforms
• Perform nucleic acid extraction and RT-PCR setup independently
• Run chemistry panels
• Execute automated immunoassays
• Support <24 hour turnaround times for clinic partners
• Troubleshoot instrument issues and perform corrective actions

Quality & Documentation (20%)

• Help maintain validation documentation and standard operating procedures
• Perform daily quality control and instrument maintenance
• Participate in proficiency testing programs
• Support internal audits and regulatory inspections
• Assist with QC data tracking and trending

And other duties as required. We're a small team. We need members who spot where help is needed and step in as an asset.

What You Bring

Required Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, Chemistry, or related field
• 2+ years laboratory experience (clinical lab experience strongly preferred)
• Experience with molecular diagnostics (PCR/RT-PCR platforms) preferred
• Experience with chemistry analyzers and/or immunoassay systems preferred
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in lab techniques including nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, result interpretation, chemistry analyzers, immunoassay analyzers
• Understanding of CLIA, CAP, and clinical laboratory quality standards (preferred)
• Experience troubleshooting analytical instruments and resolving technical issues
• Strong documentation skills with attention to regulatory compliance
• Comfortable learning new instruments and platforms quickly

Soft Skills:

• Self-starter who takes ownership and solves problems independently
• Detail-oriented with commitment to accuracy and quality
• Clear communicator who escalates issues appropriately
• Adaptable and comfortable in a startup environment
• Team player who helps others succeed

What We Offer

Growth Path:

• Part-time position with full-time growth opportunity for the right candidate
• Advancement opportunities: Lab Tech 2 Lab Team Lead
• Hands-on experience with diverse analytical platforms
• Opportunity to shape laboratory operations from the ground up
• Direct mentoring from Lab Manager with minimal hierarchy

Compensation & Benefits:

• $22-25/hour based on experience
• Quarterly team bonuses tied to sample volume and quality metrics
• Flexible part-time schedule
• Potential for full-time conversion based on performance and business growth

Work Environment:

• Small founding team where your expertise directly impacts success
• Modern instrumentation including Biorad, AU680, Tecan liquid handler
• Direct access to Lab Manager and CEO - no corporate bureaucracy
• Mission-driven work increasing access to affordable diagnostic testing
• Collaborative culture that values Teamwork, Integrity, Ownership, Excellence, and Persistence

Reporting Structure

Reports To: Lab Manager (Erick Alvarado)
Team: Growing lab team in validation and launch phase
Collaboration: Direct partnership with Lab Manager on validation strategy and operational setup

Success Metrics & Bonus Targets

Your Goals:

• Complete assigned validation protocols for all platforms within 3-4 months
• Process daily sample volume on time with <24 hour turnaround
• Maintain instrument uptime through proper maintenance and troubleshooting
• Successfully support team growth through training and mentorship

Team Bonuses Based On:

• Timely project completion
• Number of samples delivered in <24 hours
• Meeting monthly quality and compliance targets