Sample Associate Jobs in Sterling, VA (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under limited supervision, his position is primarily responsible for performing the preventative maintenance for the all the laboratory plate washers and plate readers as well as specimen handling, including receipt, verification, accessioning, aliquoting and storage of pre-clinical and clinical samples. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Aliquots qualification and customer samples according to documented processes with precision and accuracy.

• Documents activities, records observations and completes all paperwork in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice/Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GLP/GCLP), SOPs, and protocols as applicable

• Uses established checklists in the routine performance of tasks

• Maintains sample management tracking logs

• Documents sample discrepancies and communicates to appropriate parties under limited supervision

• Ensures proper storage conditions and follows safety requirements based on sample type 

• Monitors proper storage of samples, including appropriate location, temperature and condition of freezers

• Participates in rotation for on-call freezer temperature monitoring and response activities

• Prepares labels using automated and manual systems

• Processes sample transfer/return requests, communicating with customer through email for returns and consolidates samples for storage/shipment under limited supervision

• Performs general sample management laboratory support functions such as supply inventory, lab equipment (freezer) maintenance and laboratory daily cleaning 

• Performs freezer inventory/cycle counts

• Performs preventative maintenance for laboratory equipment (plate washers, plate readers) with direct supervision

• Recognizes deviations from normal situations and results, informs supervisor and assists in the resolution  

• Performs end of day/freezer closeout tasks under limited supervision

• Prepares, maintains, and updates electronic or physical inventories (samples, supplies, reagents, etc.)

• Adheres to all laboratory safety policies and procedures including proper use of all required personal protective equipment (PPE)

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree in Biology or related field, with a minimum of one year in a regulated laboratory or Clinical Research Organization (CRO) is required

o High School diploma and additional experience in a regulated laboratory or CRO may be substituted for Associate’s degree.

• Training in and experience with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) techniques is required.

• Training in and experience with GLP and/or GCLP is highly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practice/Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GLP/GCLP) 

• Strong proficiency in working with computers and Microsoft office (especially excel and outlook)

• Pipetting skills with high precision and accuracy

• Ability to work with laboratory equipment including but not limited to freezers, refrigerators, single/multi-channel pipettes, plate washers and plate readers

• Excellent listening, oral and written communication skills

• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills

• Strong customer service orientation

• Ability to multi-task and produce high quality data working under strict deadlines

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high energy, demanding and deadline driven environment

• Comfortable in working in a laboratory environment and able to handle specimens

• Ability to understand and follow SOPs and written instructions

• Ability to work independently and as an effective team member

• Ability to work outside of normal business hours to include long hours and weekends

• Ability to participate in on-call schedule for freezer temperature monitoring and response activities

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls, reach with hands and arms.

• Up to 100 % of the day may be spent at a laboratory bench, and involve repetitive tasks (e.g., pipetting).

• This individual will work in a cold environment for up to 50% of time.

• There are aspects of the position’s duties that require a person in this role to work at heights above four (4) feet on occasion and move/lift up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) materials including human blood/blood products and/or other potentially infectious human samples

o May involve handling of pathogenic materials and organisms

COMPENSATION SUMMARY

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $45,500. to $66,000. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.

BENEFITS SUMMARY

At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.

EEO/AA STATEMENT

MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here.

Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.