EQ Technician

Perform laboratory techniques including membrane filtration, direct plate inoculation, pour plating, aseptic techniques, and plate reading. Conduct testing such as bioburden, particulate monitoring, environmental monitoring, utilities monitoring, media growth promotion, Gram staining, and organism culture maintenance.

Title: EQ Technician I
Location: Austin, TX
Job Type: 12-Month Contract
Pay Rate: $21.00 $22.00 per hour
Schedule: Monday Friday, 8:00 AM 5:00 PM

Position Overview
The EQ Technician I performs routine and non-routine laboratory testing in support of manufacturing operations. This includes testing of utility systems, sterilizer systems, incoming raw materials, in-process products, and final products.
The technician will follow established safety procedures, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Standard Test Methods (STMs), specifications, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), Standard Laboratory Practices (SLP), and current Good Documentation Practices (cGDP).
This position works under direct supervision or the guidance of a lead technician.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological and biological testing according to established laboratory procedures and test methods.
• Conduct testing such as bioburden, particulate monitoring, environmental monitoring, utilities monitoring, media growth promotion, Gram staining, and organism culture maintenance.
• Perform laboratory techniques including membrane filtration, direct plate inoculation, pour plating, aseptic techniques, and plate reading.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment used for routine and non-routine testing.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, batch records, controlled worksheets, and electronic laboratory records in accordance with documentation requirements.
• Use laboratory information systems, databases, and software applications such as LIMS, Excel, and other applicable systems.
• Review and verify laboratory results and documentation completed by other laboratory personnel as required.
• Support the investigation and resolution of manufacturing and laboratory issues.
• Identify and escalate questionable, inconsistent, or nonconforming results to the appropriate supervisor or lead.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory media and materials in accordance with established procedures.
• Perform sterilization, decontamination, and applicable sterilization cycles.
• Support technical studies, special projects, and laboratory investigations.
• Cross-train in other laboratory functions as needed.
• Perform additional duties based on departmental and business requirements.

Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of laboratory instrumentation, microbiology, and environmental laboratory practices.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and timeliness.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow laboratory procedures and written instructions.
• Basic mathematical and algebraic skills.
• Ability to perform testing efficiently while maintaining accuracy, safety, and quality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel.
• Ability to learn and use internal laboratory systems and software.
• Ability to identify and appropriately communicate inconsistent or nonconforming results.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills within established procedures and guidelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical personnel.
• Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a biological or environmental laboratory environment preferred.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in laboratory, cleanroom, and manufacturing environments.
• Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and gowning attire as applicable.
• May work with microorganisms and laboratory equipment that may involve steam, vacuum, pressure, or lasers.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods depending on the activity.
• Ability to use a computer or touchscreen for data entry and work-related activities.
• Ability to occasionally lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.
• Travel may be required less than 5% of the time.