Laboratory Technician - Level 1

POLARIS Laboratories•Salt Lake City, UT

About The Position

The Laboratory Technician, Level I, generates high-quality laboratory data at large capacity for POLARIS Laboratory customers using laboratory instruments and assigned tests. The role follows work instructions and established procedures, quality standards, and safety requirements while developing proficiency in assigned laboratory methods and supporting customer turnaround-time expectations. The technician uses common software and laboratory information systems, maintains accurate sample data and documentation, meets daily production expectations, performs instrument maintenance, and troubleshoots or escalates instrument issues. The role supports quality and safety systems, maintains required training and certifications, contributes to team goals and continuous improvement, and helps maintain laboratory organization and housekeeping standards. The position may also involve collaboration with Laboratory Operations, Research and Development, Data Analysis, Sample Processing, Maintenance and Calibration, Quality, and cross-functional teams to resolve issues, support audits, and contribute to Kaizens. The schedule is second shift, 3:30 p.m. to midnight.

Requirements

GED or high school diploma.
Ability to work in a fast-paced production laboratory environment.
Complete all mandatory POLARIS training (Core Document Training) by the end of the 90-day period.
For internal candidates, 12 months without written warnings.
A satisfactory 90-day review on file.
Mechanical ability and fine motor skills.
Ability to multitask, perform repetitive tasks, and maintain an organized workspace.
Ability to identify and resolve issues through troubleshooting and to identify discrepancies and escalate concerns appropriately.
High attention to detail and accuracy in sample handling, data entry, and documentation.
Ability to detect color and odor and apply process steps to complete tasks.
Effective communication and time-management skills.
Wear eye protection when going through the laboratory; use assigned PPE properly and report defective, damaged, lost, or improperly fitting PPE.
Maintain current HAZMAT, OSHA, RCRA, Methylene Chloride, and General Laboratory Safety training as defined by the POLARIS Quality System.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a production or laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

Use common software, including ADP, HRN, JIRA, Reliance, and Microsoft Teams; accurately enter and document data in LIMS and paperwork; and research sample history.
Meet daily production expectations while maintaining quality standards and working according to the assigned schedule and attendance policy.
Troubleshoot and appropriately escalate instrument issues, and perform instrument maintenance using available resources.
Follow work instructions; achieve and maintain audits for assigned tests and documents; stay current with training document changes; and maintain quality as measured by customer satisfaction, CAPAs, and customer complaints.
Report and help prevent safety incidents, use personal protective equipment appropriately, and achieve and maintain safety-course certifications.
Communicate business needs to leaders and support team members in achieving team goals.
Bring ideas and recommendations for process and efficiency improvements through the Lean initiative.
Maintain laboratory organization and housekeeping standards in accordance with 5S principles.
Collaborate with Laboratory Operations, Research and Development, Data Analysis, Sample Processing, and Maintenance and Calibration departments to resolve issues.
Collaborate with the Quality department on audits and with cross-functional teams to support Kaizens.
Adhere to and support the POLARIS Employee Handbook and Standards of Conduct; learn and support the quality management system and safety programs; and support continuous improvement initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned.