Lab Technician

Job Title: Lab Technician

Job Description

The Lab Technician will support a high-throughput laboratory by receiving, processing, and documenting samples in a fast-paced environment. This role focuses on sample handling, microbiological testing, and accurate data entry into a LIMS database while helping to establish and grow a new lab facility from the ground up. The position offers hands-on experience with pathogen detection techniques, cross-training opportunities, and the chance to contribute to the long-term development and expansion of the site.

Responsibilities

• Receive and log up to approximately 400 samples per day, starting around 200 samples per day as the lab ramps up.
• Collect samples from couriers and mail and verify that all samples and accompanying documentation are correct and complete.
• Enter sample information accurately into the LIMS database and complete all required internal paperwork and documentation.
• Transfer and organize paperwork and coordinate sending logistics to the associated site in New Berlin as needed.
• Plate samples and prepare them for analysis, including weighing samples for testing and preparing Petri dishes for incubation.
• Set up samples for incubation and ensure proper labeling, handling, and storage throughout the testing process.
• Count colonies on plates to completion and record results accurately in the system.
• Perform pathogen testing and pathogen detection using microbiological methods and PCR testing according to established protocols.
• Support laboratory operations by managing waste, handling retains, and performing routine cleaning and housekeeping tasks.
• Follow all laboratory procedures, quality standards, and safety guidelines while maintaining an organized and efficient work area.
• Collaborate with a small team of technicians (approximately 5-7 people) to meet daily throughput and turnaround time goals.
• Participate in cross-training and support additional lab areas as performance and business needs evolve.
• Contribute to the setup, refinement, and continuous improvement of workflows and processes in a new and growing lab environment.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability as procedures, schedules, and volumes change during the lab's start-up phase.

Essential Skills

• Degree in the sciences (such as microbiology, biology, or a related scientific discipline).
• Foundational knowledge of microbiology principles and laboratory practices.
• Ability to work effectively in a high-capacity, fast-paced environment handling a large volume of samples.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in sample verification, plating, and data entry.
• Comfort working in environments similar to high-volume service or kitchen settings, where speed, cleanliness, and coordination are critical.
• Self-starter mindset with strong motivation to take initiative and stay productive.
• High level of patience and willingness to learn new processes, methods, and technologies.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adhere strictly to laboratory protocols.
• Reliable organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate with colleagues in a small lab team.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Preferred: Microbiology experience in the food industry or a similar applied testing environment.
• Experience working in fast-paced roles such as kitchen staff, food service, or other high-volume operations.
• Interest in long-term career growth and understanding of the broader opportunities within a national laboratory network.
• Openness to cross-training and expanding skills into additional areas within the lab as the site grows.
• Comfort working in a start-up lab environment where processes are evolving and initial workloads may be slower before full ramp-up.
• Ability to adapt to staggered or changing start schedules as the lab build-out progresses.

Work Environment

This role is based in a new laboratory facility that is ramping up operations and building processes from the ground up. The position includes an initial training period of approximately three weeks in New Berlin, Wisconsin, Monday through Friday, where hotel accommodations are provided. During training, you will learn sample plating, sample preparation, and core lab processes, with the understanding that the early phase may feel slow and involve fewer tests as the lab comes online and testing begins. You will work closely with a team of about 5-7 people in a collaborative environment focused on accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement. The lab uses a LIMS database for sample tracking and documentation, along with standard microbiology tools, Petri dishes, incubation equipment, and PCR-based methods for pathogen detection. The standard schedule is planned as four 10-hour shifts per week (4x10s), but flexibility is essential as hours and shift structures may change while the lab grows. Target hours are for a late first shift, with possible schedules such as 9:00 a.m.-7:30 p.m. or 10:00 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Overtime may be possible, though it is unlikely in the first six months, with an expectation of around 10% overtime after the initial ramp-up period. The environment values adaptability, teamwork, and a willingness to navigate the inevitable challenges and adjustments that come with launching a new laboratory.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tinley Park, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Tinley Park,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 20, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.