Temporary Laboratory Technician (Lab Support)

Job Title: Temporary Laboratory Technician (Lab Support)

About Switch Bioworks

Based in San Carlos, CA, Switch Bioworks is redefining bioproduction through programmable microbes. Beginning with agriculture, we are developing nitrogen-fixing microbial consortia that live directly on crop roots. This replaces expensive, carbon-intensive synthetic fertilizers with a living alternative that reshapes the economics and sustainability of farming.

Our edge lies in our namesake “switches” - synthetic biology control systems that activate microbial production only when and where it’s needed. By combining microbial ecology with advanced genetic control systems, Switch is building a biological platform with the potential to transform agriculture and a wide range of industrial bioproduction applications.

Our mission is simple: improve planetary health while reducing fertilizer costs at the farm gate. Learn more at www.switchbioworks.com

About the position

Switch Bioworks is seeking a seasoned reliable, detail-oriented Temporary Laboratory Support Technician for a short-term, 4-week project. This role focuses strictly on essential lab utility operations—ensuring clean glassware, sterile media, and compliant waste processing to keep our scientific workflows running smoothly. This is an excellent opportunity for a dependable candidate seeking a well-compensated, part-time temporary schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Glassware Maintenance: Collect, wash, sanitize, and properly store laboratory glassware and plasticware.
• Autoclave Operations: Operate autoclaves to sterilize media, reagents, reagents containers, and biohazardous waste according to safety protocols.
• Media Preparation: Accurately measure, mix, and prepare standard laboratory media and solutions based on established recipes.
• Waste Management: Collect and autoclave hazardous and non-hazardous laboratory waste for safe disposal.
• Lab Organization: Keep the washroom, autoclave area, and media preparation stations clean, stocked, and well-organized.

Qualifications

• Prior experience working in a laboratory, medical, or sterile processing environment preferred.

• Familiarity with autoclave operation, glassware washers, and basic lab safety standards.

• Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to strictly follow SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).

• Ability to commit to the full 4-week duration and the specific shift hours.

Schedule

• Monday – Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Thursday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Duration: Anticipated September 3, 2026 – October 1, 2026

Reports To: Director of Lab Operations

Employment Type: Temporary, Part-Time (approx. 18 hours/week), Non-Exempt

Pay Rate: $30.00 / hour