Biorepository Technician I

Position Summary:

The Biorepository Technician I will assist in shipment & receipt, the retrieval and preservation of biological samples that arrive daily or are stored in the repository.

Essential functions of the job include but are not limited to:

Monitoring of freezers:

• Respond to freezer alarms in accordance with standard operating procedures
• Monitor freezers, refrigerator and room temperatures as assigned by Manager

Receive biological samples: 

• Unpack specimens and record all pertinent information in Incoming Shipment Batch and incoming folder
• Create a folder to house all associated paperwork
• Store at appropriate temperature following guidelines set by procedures
• Distribute confirmation of shipment receipt form if required by project

Receive supplies into inventory: 

• Verify shipment contents against packing list
• Quarantine Raw Materials for release by QA department

Inventory of Frozen Biological Samples:

• Check information on sample vial against information provided by the study site
• Scan samples into data management system, BSI
• Correct paperwork where necessary and inform supervisor/manager of any discrepancies by generating a discrepancy report
• Assist in the inventory of returned specimens
• Aliquot frozen specimens utilizing aseptic technique

Retrieve Frozen Samples from Inventory and Ship:

• Pull samples according to requisition, SOP, and instructions
• Perform quality control verification of outgoing samples
• Update Outgoing Batch Record
• Contact receiving labs prior to shipment to confirm shipping address and ensure contact will be available to receive specimens
• Ship samples (dangerous and non-dangerous goods) by Commercial or local courier
• Complete all paperwork (link-up forms, aliquot forms, return forms or BSI data collection sheets and any other forms which may be necessary)

Miscellaneous:

• Label vials and shipping boxes
• Perform dry shipper QC
• Keep current on IATA Shipping Regulations and maintain certification and standards
• Carry out other duties/projects as assigned

Qualifications:

Minimum Required:

• High School Diploma and 2 years’ of relevant working experience or
• Bachelor’s Degree (Biology, Chemistry, Life Sciences or other related discipline) and 0-2 years of relevant working experience

Other Required:

• Requires good attention to detail, excellent documentation skills and must work well in a group environment
• Familiarity with excel and basic functions with the program
• Must be a flexible agile team player who can change activities and directions quickly and respond to a variety of assignment and changing business needs
• Ability to lift and carry between 31-50 lbs.; Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. overhead with assistance; frequently required to sit, stand and walk for prolonged periods; occasionally required to squat, bend, stoop, push, kneel, reach and perform tasks with repetitive motion; Will be exposed to a cold freezer environment (Freezer temperatures range between -20ºC -196ºC)
• Must be able to read, write, speak fluently and comprehend the English language

Preferred:

• 1 year of relevant lab experience
• Possess basic laboratory skills
• Trained in aseptic technique