Lab Technician 1 - PART TIME

Lab Technician 1

ABDA Labs | Austin, TX | PART TIME

Compensation: $20-22/hour

Why Work Here

Join ABDA Labs as one of the founding team members launching our Austin clinical laboratory. We're building something from the ground up - validating cutting-edge molecular and chemistry platforms to deliver faster, more affordable testing to functional medicine clinics and wellness practices across Central Texas. Part-time position with full-time growth opportunity for the right candidate. When other labs take days, we deliver results the same day. Your expertise will directly shape how we operate, and in a small team, your voice actually matters.

Problems You'll Solve

Project Execution: Execute hands-on projects for clinical validation and R&D on multiple analytical platforms (Biorad CFX Opus 384, AU680 chemistry analyzer, Pentra XL80R hematology, proprietary immunoassay system).

Quality Support: Support implementation of quality control procedures and documentation standards from day one, supporting the Lab Manager in building a compliant, high-performing laboratory.

Operational Excellence: Support high-volume sample processing across molecular, chemistry, and immunoassay platforms to meet our <24 hour turnaround commitments to clinic partners.

Instrument Maintenance: Learn our core testing platforms thoroughly and perform daily maintenance.

What You'll Do

Project Execution (40%)

• Support validation of chemistry assays on AU680 using proprietary reagents
• Support hematology validation on Pentra XL80R analyzer
• Support validation of proprietary immunoassay platform for hormone and wellness testing
• Perform accuracy, precision, linearity, and reference range studies
• Document all validation data with meticulous attention to regulatory compliance
• Operate Tecan EVO liquid handler for automated sample preparation

Sample Processing & Testing (40%)

• Process patient samples across molecular, chemistry, hematology, and immunoassay platforms
• Perform nucleic acid extraction and RT-PCR setup
• Run chemistry panels
• Execute automated immunoassays
• Support <24 hour turnaround times for clinic partners
• Identify instrument issues, perform basic corrective actions, and escalate complex problems to senior staff.

Quality & Documentation (20%)

• Perform daily quality control and instrument maintenance
• Participate in proficiency testing programs
• Assist with QC data tracking and trending
• Work performed under the review and guidance of senior lab staff

Other duties as assigned. We are looking for someone with flexibility to adapt to evolving business needs.

What You Bring

Required Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, Chemistry, or related field
• 0-2 years laboratory experience (academic, internship, clinical lab experience acceptable)
• Hands-on experience with molecular diagnostics (PCR/RT-PCR platforms) a plus
• Experience with chemistry analyzers and/or immunoassay systems a plus
• Ability to follow SOPs accurately and work effectively under supervision

Technical Skills:

• Familiarity with molecular techniques: nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, result interpretation (training provided on lab-specific protocols)
• Awareness of CLIA, CAP, and clinical laboratory quality standards (preferred)
• Ability to identify and escalate instrument issues to senior staff
• Solid documentation skills with attention to detail and accuracy
• Proven ability to learn and execute new skills

Soft Skills:

• Eager to learn, takes initiative, and asks questions when unsure
• Detail-oriented with commitment to accuracy and quality
• Clear communicator who escalates issues appropriately
• Adaptable and comfortable in a startup environment
• Team player who helps others succeed

What We Offer

Growth Path:

• Part-time position with full-time growth opportunity for the right candidate
• Advancement opportunities: Lab Tech 1 → Lab Tech 2
• Hands-on experience with diverse analytical platforms
• Opportunity to shape laboratory operations from the ground up
• Direct mentoring from Lab Manager with minimal hierarchy

Compensation & Benefits:

• $20-22/hour based on experience
• Flexible part-time schedule
• Potential for full-time conversion based on performance and business growth

Work Environment:

• Small founding team where your expertise directly impacts success
• Modern instrumentation including Biorad, AU680, Tecan liquid handler
• Direct access to Lab Manager - no corporate bureaucracy
• Mission-driven work increasing access to affordable diagnostic testing
• Collaborative culture that values Teamwork, Integrity, Ownership, Excellence, and Persistence

Reporting Structure

Reports To: Lab Manager

Team: Growing lab team in validation and launch phase

Collaboration: Direct partnership with Lab Manager on validation strategy and operational setup

Success Metrics & Bonus Targets

Your Goals:

• Successful completion of assigned tasks on various projects in addition to daily required tasks
• Process daily sample volume on time with <24 hour turnaround
• Maintain instrument uptime through proper maintenance and troubleshooting
• Build proficiency across all assigned platforms and SOPs

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person

Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person