Laboratory Assistant

Job Title: Laboratory Assistant / Clinical Research SpecialistJob Description

This role supports clinical research by receiving, documenting, and processing biological samples collected during clinical trials while ensuring strict adherence to study protocols, Good Clinical Practices (GCP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The laboratory assistant works closely with clinical staff and study participants to maintain accurate regulatory documentation, protect confidentiality, and uphold high quality standards within the department. The position follows an evening shift schedule after an initial training period on the day shift.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all tasks are performed in full compliance with study protocols, Good Clinical Practices (GCP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Receive, accept, and accurately document biological samples collected during clinical trials, working directly with subjects and clinical staff.
• Maintain the confidentiality of clinical trial participants and sponsors at all times while delivering high-quality work within the department.
• Perform protocol-driven, timed study events such as centrifugation, clinical diagnostic sample handling and processing, and proper storage of samples within protocol- or SOP-defined time windows.
• Work both on the clinic floor and in the laboratory area adjacent to the clinic to support ongoing clinical studies.
• Complete regulatory documentation accurately and in a timely manner, ensuring records meet applicable standards and requirements.
• Report procedural deviations, issues, and problem resolutions promptly to the appropriate supervisory team members.
• Perform data entry related to samples, study events, and documentation using designated systems and tools.
• Collaborate with a rotating group of day-shift staff, an evening staff member, and an overnight staff member to ensure smooth handoffs and continuity of operations.
• Manage multiple, sometimes conflicting, priorities while maintaining attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and, when needed, with groups of customers or employees regarding study procedures and sample handling.
• Proactively identify and anticipate study needs, make recommendations for improvement, and bring suggestions forward to management.
• Provide customer service-focused support to internal stakeholders in a fast-paced clinical research environment.

Essential Skills

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 0-3 years of related experience in clinical research, laboratory work, or a similar environment.
• Experience with regulatory documentation in a clinical or laboratory setting.
• Basic clinical research experience, including handling biological samples.
• Proficiency in data entry with strong accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to perform pipetting and basic laboratory techniques.
• Knowledge of and adherence to Good Clinical Practices (GCP).
• Proficiency with MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and industry-specific manuals.
• Ability to write advanced reports and professional correspondence.
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong, trusting relationships.
• Ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities in a structured manner.
• Self-directed and motivated, with a strong willingness to take initiative.
• Detail-oriented and well-organized, with a strong focus on accuracy and compliance.
• Customer service-focused mindset and ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• College degree and related work experience preferred.
• Prior experience in clinical research or a regulated laboratory environment is advantageous.
• Familiarity with clinical diagnostic sample handling and processing.
• Experience working within protocol-driven, timed study events.
• Ability to anticipate study needs and propose practical recommendations for implementation.
• Comfort working with rotating teams across day, evening, and overnight coverage.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to escalate issues appropriately.

Work Environment

The position is based inside a clinical research facility in Overland Park, KS, with primary workstations located just off the clinic floor and in an adjacent laboratory. The role involves working closely with clinical staff, research professionals, and study participants in a controlled, regulated environment focused on quality, safety, and compliance. The schedule follows an evening shift, Monday through Friday, with core hours from 5:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., after an initial 3-4 week training period on the day shift. The environment is fast-paced and protocol-driven, requiring consistent attention to detail, adherence to GCP and SOPs, and careful handling of biological samples and laboratory equipment. Dress and conduct must be appropriate for a clinical and laboratory setting, aligning with facility policies and safety requirements.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Overland Park, KS.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.50 - $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 Overland Park,KS.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 13, 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.