Lab Assistant (4946)

Job description:
1. The Advanced Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (ARDL) is part of the University of Minnesota Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Department under the Medical School. ARDL is a fully accredited high-complexity clinical laboratory that serves primarily as a central laboratory for numerous research clinical trials and studies. Laboratory services include both general and
specialized analytical testing, DNA and RNA isolation, specimen processing, sample repository,
collection kit production, method validation and correlation services and cell cryopreservation
and transformation.

2. The laboratory assistant will perform a variety of support duties related to sample processing
and kit building. Specimens and kits will be made/processed using standard operating
procedures. This position includes operating and maintaining laboratory equipment such as
controlled rate freezers, liquid nitrogen freezers, centrifuges as well as maintaining supplies for
specimen processing and kit building.

Responsibilities
* The principal laboratory technician responsibilities are varied and include use of different
computer systems and specialized laboratory equipment in a fast paced, high throughput
laboratory.
* Receiving samples in the FedEx Ship Manager, sorting and opening specimen packages and
accessioning samples in the Abbott StarLIMS laboratory information system.
* Other responsibilities include specimen sorting. inventory, aliquoting, and labeling vials.
* Operating and maintaining centrifuges, freezers, automated liquid handlers, biosafety cabinets,
chemical fume hoods, and controlled rate freezers.
* Maintaining an accurate and detailed specimen inventory in the Abbott StarLIMS laboratory
information system.
* Monitoring and ordering of supplies.
* General duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
* High school graduation or the equivalent specialization in science and related coursework or experience related to the job totaling at least four years in combination
* Excellent attention to detail
* Excellent verbal and written communication
* Ability to learn quickly
* Ability to organize and prioritize work and follow through on assignments
* Dependable

Preferred Qualifications:
* Laboratory experience working with biological specimens
* Manufacturing experience building kits
* Shipping and Receiving experience
* Experience with ordering tests and inventory management in a laboratory information system

Pay Range: $26.46-$34.41/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.