Lab Technician (Contingent)

Company: Sansum Diabetes Research Institute
Location: Santa Barbara
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Lab Technician supports ongoing research activities by preparing, processing, and analyzing biological samples, using a range of analytical instruments and laboratory equipment. This role focuses on the operation, calibration, and maintenance of biochemistry analyzers, including YSI systems and similar analyzers, as well as general lab support such as centrifugation, sample storage, and documentation. The position requires a strong technical background, attention to detail, and familiarity with standard laboratory procedures. This is a contingent position, shifts are variable in length, staffed on an as-needed basis to support laboratory operations and research demands. This is an onsite position. Key Responsibilities Operate, calibrate, and maintain biochemistry analyzers and other analytical instruments according to manufacturer and laboratory protocols. Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality checks on lab equipment. Prepare and process blood and urine samples for analysis following established protocols. Utilize and maintain a range of laboratory equipment, including centrifuges of various capacities, ultra-low temperature freezers, point-of-care instruments, and other analytical devices. Accurately record and report data, maintaining detailed logs of calibration, maintenance, and quality control activities. Adhere to laboratory safety protocols and infection control procedures at all times. Assist with general laboratory operations, including supply inventory and reagent preparation. Support ongoing validation, verification, and quality assurance activities as directed. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, Chemistry, or related field. Minimum 1–2 years of experience as a Lab Technician or Medical Technologist (preferably in a clinical or research setting). Experience with YSI analyzers or similar instrumentation is highly desirable. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and adherence to quality and compliance standards. Strong technical and troubleshooting skills for laboratory equipment. Proficiency with basic laboratory techniques and sample handling. Excellent recordkeeping, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and follow detailed protocols. LANGUAGE SKILLS The ability to read, write, and speak English clearly is mandatory. The ability to interpret documents such as safety rules, SOPs, and procedures is critical and an understanding of and ability to communicate in scientific language is desired. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The incumbent is regularly required to sit, talk, hear, and climb stairs. The incumbent frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle or feel equipment, paper, or files. The incumbent is required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10-20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. This position requires manual dexterity, skill level and adequate vision to record data onto data sheets and adequate hearing and verbal communication skills to converse with study subjects. Standing for extended periods of time as well as light lifting is necessary. The incumbent must be in sufficient overall health to report for work consistently and reliably and work through a standard day with appropriate breaks. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment would be generally described as an office setting with clinical facilities adjacent to the primary work area and laboratory facilities on a different floor. The ability to move within all three of these areas may be required in the execution of the employee’s functional activities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and the illumination of the work area is primarily with fluorescent artificial lighting. This position is associated with exposure to biohazardous materials and communicable disease requiring the use of universal precautions at all times as well as other conditions common to a medical clinic and research facility. This job description is intended to describe the general requirements of the performance of the job. It is not a complete list of duties, responsibilities or requirements. Other duties not listed here may be assigned as needed.

Keywords: Sansum Diabetes Research Institute, Rancho Palos Verdes , Lab Technician (Contingent), Science, Research & Development , Santa Barbara, California