Laboratory Program Assistant

the South Dakota State Government•Pierre, SD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The South Dakota Public Health Laboratory is seeking a Laboratory Program Assistant to support its medical microbiology, environmental chemistry, and forensic chemistry programs. The position performs a wide variety of laboratory-support duties, which may include unpackaging clinical, environmental, and forensic samples; inventory management; data entry and data management; mailroom activities; waste management; and media preparation. No education or experience in natural or physical sciences is required, and on-the-job training will be provided. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The work takes place in a laboratory environment with noise and heat from equipment similar to that in a commercial kitchen. The employee works directly with chemicals and handles infectious waste, must be able to stand for much of the workday, and must be able to lift packages weighing up to 50 pounds. Successful candidates will be innovative and resourceful and will assist laboratory scientists and Public Health Laboratory leadership. Applicants must attach a resume and apply online; emailed resumes or other submissions will not be accepted. Successful applicants must undergo a background investigation. A National Career Readiness Certificate may be submitted if held, but is not required. The state does not sponsor work visas. Hired employees must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9; the state uses E-Verify.

Requirements

Knowledge of or familiarity with Microsoft Office software.
Ability to train in and use an electronic test ordering system and an inventory management system.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to solve problems using common sense, reasoning, and resourcefulness.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Ability to remain flexible and adapt quickly to shifting priorities.
Ability to stand for much of the workday and lift packages up to 50 pounds.
Must undergo a background investigation if selected.
Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a commercial kitchen or restaurant industry.
Experience packaging and shipping through USPS, UPS, FedEx, or another courier.
Self-motivation and ability to work as a team player.
A National Career Readiness Certificate may be submitted, but is not required.

Responsibilities

Unpackage clinical, environmental, and forensic samples.
Manage inventory.
Perform data entry and data management.
Support mailroom activities.
Support waste management.
Prepare laboratory media.
Assist laboratory scientists and Public Health Laboratory leadership.
Support the laboratory's diverse needs and collaborate with Program Assistants, laboratory scientists, and laboratory leadership to meet daily goals.
Operate commercial dishwashers, ovens, autoclaves (steam sterilizers), scales, and balances.
Make complex microbiological media and dispense it into appropriate vessels, including tubes, plates, and bottles.
Package and ship infectious substances and laboratory supplies.
Manage multiple projects and meet agreed-upon deadlines.
Observe chemical, biological, and occupational safety requirements and follow patient confidentiality policies.