Lab Assistant

Company Profile

Carterra is a fast-growing life science bio-tech technology company located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Carterra name is based on two core concepts: Cartography (mapping) and terra (worlds); literally meaning "mapping worlds." This represents the Company’s exciting new high-speed, high-resolution label-free biosensor technology, which is being used by leading pharmaceutical and bio-technology companies to thoroughly explore new worlds in biotherapeutic drug discovery that were previously impossible to investigate. Our products allow researchers to identify potential targets early in the drug discovery process where risks and costs can be significantly mitigated.

Job Summary

Carterra is seeking a detail-oriented Lab Assistant to provide hands-on support for laboratory operations, experimental testing, and product development activities. Working under the direction of scientists and engineers, this position performs assigned laboratory procedures, prepares samples and reagents, maintains accurate experimental records, and supports the organization, maintenance, and safe operation of the laboratory.

The Lab Assistant will support teams developing complex instrumentation used to measure biomolecular interactions and will work with laboratory processes involving automated fluid and sample handling, sample delivery, detection systems, and associated instrumentation and software.

Essential Functions

• Perform assigned experiments, sample preparation, and test procedures according to established protocols, written instructions, and direction from scientists and engineers.
• Maintain complete, accurate, legible, and contemporaneous laboratory notebook and other experimental records documenting all work performed, methods used, observations, and results.
• Record, organize, and maintain experimental data and supporting documentation to ensure results are traceable and available for review.
• Support testing and evaluation of new and existing product lines by executing test plans, collecting data, and promptly reporting anomalies or unexpected results.
• Prepare buffers, reagents, samples, and consumables required for planned lab experiments and testing activities.
• Maintain the lab space by keeping work areas clean and organized, monitoring and tracking inventory of reagents and consumables, and initiating reorders as needed.
• Perform routine cleaning, functional checks, and preventive maintenance on laboratory instruments; escalate equipment issues to the appropriate technical resource.
• Follow all safety, chemical handling, and waste disposal requirements and help keep safety documentation current.
• Assist with drafting and updating protocols, work instructions, test records, and other documentation supporting verification and validation activities.
• Communicate progress, results, and issues clearly and promptly to supervising scientist, engineers, and project team members.
• Support sample logging, labeling, and receiving of laboratory materials and shipments.

Additional Responsibilities

• Contribute to continuous improvement of laboratory processes, organization, and documentation practices.
• Perform other related duties as assigned consistent with the responsibilities and level of the position.

Qualifications:

• Associate degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or a related life science field and 1-3 years of relevant laboratory experience; a bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred.
• Relevant academic, internship, or co-op laboratory experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated ability to follow written and verbal instructions, established protocols, and laboratory procedures accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate, legible, and complete record keeping, including maintenance of a laboratory notebook.
• Proficiency with general wet-lab technique, including pipetting, dilutions, and buffer and reagent preparation.
• Ability to manage multiple assigned tasks and priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Effective written and communication skills.
• Working knowledge of laboratory safety practices, chemical handling, and waste disposal procedures.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and accurate data entry.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or a related life science field.
• Familiarity with data analysis or database tools.
• Experience with biosensor technologies, SPR, or protein and antibody handling.
• Experience working in a commercial or regulated laboratory environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 40 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to perform laboratory work requiring periods of standing and the use of standard laboratory equipment.

Pay: $50,000.00 - $58,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person