Lab Technician

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology, genomics, crop nutrition and agriculture, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops.  We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour.

We are seeking a Lab Technician (Media Prep/Glassware) to aseptically preparing media for various departments by hand and with instrumentation while following and adhering to SOPs and safety/GMP. Using techniques such as mixing, sterilizing, quality control (QC), maintaining inventory and records. Washing, sterilizing, storing, and preparing glassware for media use.

Essential Functions

• Preparing media (agar, broth, buffers) according to standardized preparation instructions
• Pipetting
• Attention to detail
• Operating instrumentation such as the HIVE and automatic plate fillers
• Washing glassware via autoclave and dishwasher
• Maintaining records
• Label and store media accordingly
• Maintain cleanliness within the lab
• Follow SOPs and GMPs

Competencies

Knowledge & Application

• Ability to use a computer with email, Microsoft word, Microsoft Excel
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to work aseptically
• Instrumentation experience preferred
• Pipetting experience preferred
• Good organizational and record keeping skills
• Basic knowledge of laboratory practices and procedures
• Ability to follow and demonstrate Good Documentation Practices per ALCOA guidelines.
• Record data and run Excel based calculation with accuracy and consistency as needed to support process improvement and trending of results. Apply data into LIMS platformed systems for evaluation. Generate reports as needed.
• Perform or participate in the statistical evaluation of test results as needed.
• Interpret results for meeting specifications and perform investigations when quality specifications are not met.
• Perform peer review of all applicable supporting documentation and metadata as needed to release media for use.
• Receive, record, and track inbound consumables and assist with shipping outbound materials as needed to support Quality.
• Ability to follow and demonstrate Microbial Lab Best Practices.
• Support all general lab operations necessary to keep the lab running safely and effectively, including waste removal, hazardous waste disposal, safety policies, equipment maintenance, stocking of laboratory supplies, etc.
• Review Quality SOPs, work instructions, and department forms for accuracy and update as needed. Ability to draft new SOPs, work instructions, and department forms for new processes as needed using approved formats.

Complexity & Problem Solving

• Ability to evaluate testing results and assist in investigations as needed.
• Assist in root cause evaluations of deviations as needed.
• Participate in continual process improvements of department functions as needed and to challenge established processes for improvement.

Collaboration & Interaction

• Participate across multiple department lines as needed to complete tasks affecting all stakeholders.

Work Environment

• Lab, warehouse and production environment
• Involves lifting or moving products weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Standing, sitting, walking and testing for long periods of time.

Required Education & Experience

• Minimum of Associates Degree or equivalent experience
• Minimum 1 year lab experience in Microbiology lab setting with media preparation preferred.

Must be authorized to work in the United States.

What We Offer

• Competitive package in a disruptive startup 
• Stock options 
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums 
• Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies 
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts 
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match 
• Commuter benefits 
• Annual Training & Development support 
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule 
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team

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