Laboratory Assistant

The Laboratory Assistant plays a key role in a raw materials laboratory by processing animal blood, primarily from cows and pigs, to separate red and white blood cells used in the production of calibrators for hematology instruments. This position operates in an FDA-regulated environment and focuses on hands-on laboratory work with centrifuges, careful documentation, and thorough cleaning and maintenance of production equipment and containers after processing runs. The role offers valuable experience with established laboratory systems and procedures, providing a strong foundation for future internal career growth in manufacturing and other scientific departments.

Responsibilities

• Process raw biological materials, primarily cow and pig blood, to separate red and white blood cells for use in product manufacturing.
• Operate centrifuges for the breakdown and separation of blood components in a raw materials lab setting.
• Support further processing of blood components in the components lab, recognizing that white blood cell processing is more complex than red blood cell processing.
• Maintain, clean, and prepare production equipment, containers, and dishware after processing runs.
• Wrap cleaned equipment for further sterilization according to established procedures.
• Batch and label products accurately, ensuring correct identification and traceability.
• Document results, processes, and observations thoroughly, including proper recording of lot numbers and reference to past batch records.
• Understand and follow all laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs), including regulatory requirements for chemical handling, hazard awareness, compliance, and proper equipment use.
• Follow daily work instructions and priorities set by the supervisor with a strong commitment to safety.
• Participate in continuous process improvement efforts by identifying and flagging areas where processes can be enhanced.
• Work on your feet throughout the lab and dishwashing areas to support daily operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to ensure smooth and efficient laboratory operations.

• Experience working in a general laboratory environment.
• Strong attention to detail in handling samples, operating equipment, and documenting work.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) precisely.
• Comfort working directly with pig and cow blood and large volumes of biological materials.
• Solid math skills to perform dilutions and related calculations accurately.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, as verified by references.
• Strong documentation skills to maintain accurate and compliant records in an FDA-regulated lab.
• Awareness of chemical handling protocols, laboratory hazards, and compliance requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with centrifuges and other common laboratory equipment.
• Understanding of basic chemistry concepts relevant to laboratory work.
• Interest in continuous process improvement and willingness to suggest enhancements to existing workflows.
• Motivation to build a long-term career in scientific or manufacturing environments, leveraging experience with established products and systems.

This role is based entirely on-site in a well-lit basement laboratory with no remote work options. Laboratory Assistants spend the majority of the day on their feet, moving throughout the lab and dishwashing areas while handling and processing large amounts of animal blood to remove red and white blood cells. The environment is clean, organized, and FDA-regulated, with a strong emphasis on safety and compliance. Standard laboratory attire includes a lab coat, goggles, and a hairnet, and team members may wear headphones while working if they choose. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with minimal overtime or weekend work expected.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on May 13, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.