Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Strain Improvement Lab Technician
Job Description

The Strain Improvement Lab Technician provides hands-on support to a team of scientists by executing key laboratory tasks and ensuring the smooth operation of strain improvement workflows. This role focuses on microbial growth, sample preparation, and molecular biology techniques to support projects involving genetically modified microbial strains for a range of biotechnological and nutritional applications. The technician also helps identify process improvements and may contribute to experimental screening and data presentation, depending on experience and performance.

Responsibilities

• Prepare microbial growth media according to established protocols to support strain improvement and research activities.
• Sterilize glassware, instruments, and other laboratory equipment using appropriate sterilization methods and equipment, such as autoclaves.
• Perform small-scale microbial culture growth, including inoculation, monitoring, and harvesting of samples at defined time points.
• Process and prepare microbial samples for downstream analyses, including DNA and RNA extraction and other sample preparation steps.
• Conduct PCR and other common molecular biology techniques to support strain validation and characterization.
• Coordinate with other departments and teams to ensure efficient material transfers, sample handoffs, and timely processing.
• Execute routine laboratory maintenance tasks, including maintaining cleanliness, organizing supplies, and supporting general lab operations.
• Identify and propose improvements to laboratory workflows, methods, and processes to increase operational efficiency and throughput.
• Proactively manage daily tasks, prioritize activities, and support team scheduling to maintain smooth laboratory operations in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintain accurate, organized records of experiments, sample tracking, and laboratory activities as required by project protocols.
• Follow all laboratory safety procedures and aseptic techniques to maintain a safe and contamination-free work environment.
• For exceptional candidates, assess the performance of new microbial strains by running screenings across multiple workflow stages, including growth selection, gene transformation validation, gene expression analysis, and phenotypic characterization.
• For exceptional candidates, assist in preparing and presenting experimental results and scientific findings to project teams, stakeholders, and internal audiences.

• Hands-on experience with microbial cell growth and sample processing in small-scale cultivation systems.
• Proficiency in aseptic technique to prevent contamination during microbial handling and culturing.
• Proficiency in preparing microbial growth media and performing routine laboratory maintenance tasks.
• Proficiency in common molecular biology techniques, including PCR and DNA/RNA preparation.
• Experience using sterilization equipment such as autoclaves for glassware, media, and instrument sterilization.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and manage multiple laboratory activities simultaneously.
• High attention to detail in executing protocols, documenting work, and handling samples.
• Motivated self-starter who works independently while effectively supporting a team of scientists.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for collaborating with colleagues and documenting results.
• Ability to function effectively in a fast-paced research and development environment.
• Ability to work well in collaborative, team-based settings.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, or a related field, with experience in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, microbial culturing, and/or biochemistry.
• Experience with design of experiments in molecular cloning is a plus.
• Familiarity with flow cytometry techniques is a plus.
• Experience with data analysis related to molecular biology or microbiology experiments is a plus.
• Proactive, inquisitive mindset with a desire to learn new techniques and improve laboratory processes.
• Interest in biotechnical processes and genetically modifying microbial strains for biotechnological applications.
• Comfort working across teams and coordinating with multiple stakeholders in an R&D setting.

This role is based in a research and development laboratory that focuses on developing and refining new nutritional products for human use. The environment is intellectually engaging, with scientists and staff who are eager to share knowledge and support the professional development of laboratory technicians and consultants. You will work with standard microbiology and molecular biology equipment, including small-scale cultivation systems, autoclaves, and PCR instruments, while following established safety and aseptic procedures. The site currently hosts several consultants across multiple teams, fostering an inclusive, collaborative culture where colleagues actively help one another build skills and gain exposure to new methods and technologies. The position offers paid time off and company holidays, and you can expect a dynamic, fast-paced R&D atmosphere that emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and high-quality scientific work.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Columbia, MD.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $23.00/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 Columbia,MD.

This position is anticipated to close on May 23, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

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