Research Lab Technician

Description

The Research Lab Technician is responsible for collecting, processing, storing, documenting, and shipping biological specimens for industry-sponsored clinical research studies. All work must be completed in strict accordance with study protocols, laboratory manuals, company Standard Operating Procedures, sponsor requirements, and applicable safety regulations.

This is a full-time, daytime position with a consistent Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. schedule. No weekends or holidays are required.

Clinical research experience is strongly desired but not required. Training will be provided; however, the successful candidate must demonstrate exceptional attention to detail and the ability to learn and consistently follow study-specific procedures and time-sensitive specimen requirements.

Essential Functions

Collect blood specimens through venipuncture and other approved collection methods.

Process blood, urine, and other biological specimens for in-house testing, external reference laboratories, and central laboratories.

Perform laboratory tests and procedures accurately and within protocol-required time frames.

Prepare, label, aliquot, centrifuge, store, package, and ship specimens according to study protocols and laboratory manuals.

Complete specimen-related documentation, logs, requisitions, and shipping records accurately and promptly.

Perform vital-sign measurements and electrocardiograms (EKGs), as required.

Interact with clinical research participants in a professional, respectful, and compassionate manner.

Identify and promptly report specimen discrepancies, collection issues, temperature excursions, or protocol deviations.

Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with all applicable privacy requirements.

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Other Related Functions

Manage study-specific laboratory kit inventory, including receipt, organization, tracking, restocking, and monitoring expiration dates.

Order laboratory supplies and study kits as needed.

Maintain laboratory and examination rooms in a clean, organized, and inspection-ready condition.

Maintain biohazard waste containers and coordinate proper disposal of biohazardous materials.

Perform and document daily refrigerator, freezer, and other required temperature checks.

Maintain laboratory equipment, including required cleaning, calibration, maintenance, and service records.

Follow OSHA guidelines, infection-control procedures, universal precautions, and company safety policies.

Assist with sponsor monitoring visits, audits, and inspections by ensuring laboratory records and supplies are complete and organized.

Requirements

Education Requirements

Associate degree from an accredited institution is required.

Coursework or training in medical laboratory technology, biology, chemistry, phlebotomy, or a related healthcare field is preferred.

Licensure and Certification

Current phlebotomy certification meeting all applicable State of Louisiana requirements is required.

The employee must maintain active certification throughout employment.

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification is preferred.

Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is preferred.

Experience and Qualifications

A minimum of two years of laboratory, phlebotomy, specimen-processing, or related clinical experience is required.

Clinical research experience, particularly in industry-sponsored clinical trials, is strongly preferred.

Demonstrated experience processing, storing, packaging, and shipping biological specimens is required.

Experience managing laboratory supplies or study-kit inventory is preferred.

Ability to read, understand, and strictly follow clinical study protocols, laboratory manuals, SOPs, and sponsor instructions.

Strong attention to detail, organization, time management, and documentation skills.

Ability to manage multiple studies and time-sensitive specimen requirements without compromising accuracy.

Familiarity with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), OSHA guidelines, universal precautions, and IATA specimen-shipping requirements is preferred.

Ability to communicate effectively with research participants, investigators, study coordinators, sponsors, central laboratories, and other team members.