Lab Assistant at Recovery Centers of Montana – Missoula, Montana

The Lab Assistant will support daily operations by performing specimen accessioning, maintaining a clean and organized workspace, and ensuring adequate inventory levels across five locations. This role is essential to smooth sample flow, regulatory readiness, and overall lab efficiency. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, reliable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced clinical environment with established procedures and quality standards

• Receive, inspect, and accession incoming specimens according to SOPs
• Verify specimen integrity, labeling, and documentation
• Communicate discrepancies or issues to senior staff promptly
• Maintain cleanliness of benches, equipment surfaces, and common areas
• Perform routine cleaning and decontamination tasks following safety guidelines
• Restock consumables at workstations to ensure uninterrupted workflow
• Assist with waste disposal, including biohazard waste, in compliance with safety procedures
• Follow all safety, infection control, and regulatory guidelines (CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA)
• Monitor inventory levels of reagents, consumables, and supplies
• Receive and check incoming shipments; update inventory records
• Notify leadership when stock is low or when ordering is required
• Organize storage areas
• Assist with basic equipment checks
• Support documentation tasks such as filing, labeling, and record maintenance
• Additional duties as requested

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate's degree or bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, medical lab science, or related field
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written protocols

Preferred:

• Previous laboratory experience preferred
• Knowledge of lab procedures and laboratory safety practices
• Basic computer skills and experience with laboratory information systems
• Ability to handle biological specimens with care and professionalism
• Flexibility on days (including weekends as needed)

Skills & Competencies

• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Time management and organizational skills
• Manual dexterity and ability to work with laboratory equipment
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment

Work Environment

• Clinical Lab
• May involve standing or sitting for extended periods
• Exposure to biological specimens (wearing proper PPE equipment) and chemicals.