The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.
USC's Keck School of Medicine, Department of Medicine is seeking a dynamic individual in the university's current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) facility. The Flow Cytometry Specialized Lab Technician is responsible for performing moderate to complex laboratory procedures Focused on the development and execution of multiparametric flow cytometry assays to support testing and characterization of cell and gene therapy products. Responsibilities include sample preparation, antibody staining, instrument setup and daily quality control, data acquisition, and basic data analysis. Other key responsibilities include maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment and ensuring strict adherence to SOPs, documentation practices, and quality control requirements.
Job Accountabilities:
- Assists in the design, optimization, and execution of multiparametric flow cytometry assays for immune phenotyping, cell characterization, and quality control testing.
- Performs laboratory procedures associated with flow cytometry workflows and related cell culture activities, including cell handling and culture, panel setup, antibody titration, staining optimization, and data review. with understanding of immune cell populations and marker biology.
- performs sample handling activities including collection, processing, storage, and tracking of specimens for flow cytometry analysis. Maintains accurate records and ensures proper handling, labeling, and tracking of samples.
- Performs daily instrument startup, calibration, compensation setup, and routine maintenance of flow cytometers. Supports troubleshooting and ensures consistent instrument performance.
- Trains investigators and students in specialized laboratory techniques. Provides technical consulting in area of expertise. Assists in protocol or policy development.
- Performs other highly specialized laboratory tests as appropriate.
- Complies with any quality control policies and procedures and maintains required documentation.
- Maintains a safe environment in accordance with standards, policies and safety regulations. Ensures compliance with infection control policies.
- Handles and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.
- Creates and maintains databases and/or spreadsheets to manage and process information or data.
- May supervise unit employees and/or student workers as assigned. Trains and provides additional instruction as required. Schedules, assigns, and prioritizes workloads on a daily basis. Sets appropriate goals and deadlines. Ensures timely completion of unit's work. Assigns and oversees progress of special projects for staff and student workers.
- Assists in budget preparation by gathering historical data in a limited area, such as materials and supplies or salaries. Tracks and monitors assigned budget expenditures and reports on variances.
- Organizes and maintains supplies. Monitors inventory levels, maintains records of supplies and equipment, and prepares purchase orders as needed. Provides advice on equipment upgrades and acquisitions.
- Keeps informed of developments in field. Reads journals and other relevant publications, attends professional association meetings and seminars as appropriate.
- Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.
Successful Candidates Must Demonstrate:
Degree in directly related specialized scientific field (preferred in immunology). Prior strong hands-on experience in flow cytometry, including multiparametric panel setup, antibody staining, instrument operation, and basic data analysis. Demonstrated knowledge of flow cytometry principles such as compensation, fluorophore selection, gating strategies, and immune cell subset identification. Familiarity with cytometry analysis software and standard laboratory documentation practices. Strong communication and writing skills with demonstrated ability to work as an individual contributor and in a dynamic team environment.
Salary range:
The hourly rate range for this position is $34.32 - $36.05/hr. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.
USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree In Biological Science Or Biotechnology
Minimum Experience: 2 years in cell therapy development
Minimum Skills: Proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment used in cGMP manufacturing and quality control testing. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance principles meticulously. Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in a timely manner. Knowledge of regulatory requirements and guidelines (e.g., FDA, EMA) related to cGMP.
Preferred Education: Master's degree
Preferred Experience: 3 years in cell therapy development
USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
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