Services Technician I, Microbiomics

Job Summary: 

Zymo Research is looking for a dynamic individual to join our Mircrobiomics Team! In this role, you will be responsible for end-to-end customer sequencing projects, from sample receipt through data generation. Responsibilities include accessioning and evaluating incoming samples, logging and storing them properly, and processing them for nucleic acid isolation using SOPs on automated platforms (e.g., KingFisher, Hamilton) or manually, with appropriate purification and DNA/RNA QC. The position performs NGS library preparation (e.g., 16S, shotgun, long-read), runs Illumina and PacBio instruments, documents QC and run metrics, and maintains meticulous records. The role also troubleshoots sample and workflow issues, collaborates with R&D/automation teams to optimize processes, and provides clear, timely technical updates and support to service customers.

Join us in making a meaningful impact!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Sample receiving:

• • Accession customer samples and ensure projects are in good condition upon arrival.
  • Log projects/samples into sample tracking systems and storing samples appropriately.
  • Relay to customers if project issues arise (documents missing, sample missing, mislabeled, spills, leakage, etc.) and properly document issues in internal systems.

2. Nucleic Acid isolation:

• • Process samples in strict adherence to SOPs on automation platforms (KingFisher, Hamilton) or manually, ensuring proper sterile technique throughout.
  • Perform additional purification steps and inhibitor removal workflows.Complete DNA/RNA QC steps (e.g., Nanodrop, Qubit, TapeStation) and record QC data.

3. Library Preparation and sequencing

• • Perform NGS library preparation (e.g., 16S, Shotgun, Long-Read Workflows) with or without automation platforms (Hamilton).
  • Record QC data (e.g., reagent lots, instrument maintenance, etc.)  for intermediate steps and for final libraries.
  • Load libraries onto Illumina or PacBio instruments for Sequencing.
  • Record sequencing run metrics and provide quarterly summaries.
  • Demonstrate a proactive approach to troubleshooting any issues that may arise during library preparation and sequencing.

4. Documentation:

1. • Keep meticulous records of inventory, intra-run quality control, any R&D projects, etc., ensuring compliance with established protocols.

5. Other duties:

• • Troubleshooting of customer samples at various steps in the service workflow.
  • Collaborate with R&D/automation team to perform validation of liquid handling robots such as Hamilton and KingFishers to streamline and optimize workflows.
  • Interface with Service Customers to update on sample conditions, project updates, etc.
  • Respond to customer inquiries and provide technical support.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities:

Technical Manufacturing/QC

• Help with the manufacture of E.coli competent cells and associated tasks.
• General manufacturing of cold items, including protein, enzyme and NGS kits.
• Responsible for performing Quality Control experiments on buffers, enzymes and plastics according to established SOPs in order to reject or release products.
• Interact with other operational teams (buffer manufacturing, assembly, customer service, etc.) and R&D to ensure products release and customer satisfaction.
• Troubleshoot and perform other experiments necessary for resolving production or quality control issues.

 

Education and Experience:

• An Associate’s degree with one-year laboratory experience in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Biochemistry or related field. Bachelor’s degree is a plus.
• Experience performing molecular biology and biochemistry including PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid purification etc.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Attention to details and accuracy
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products

About Us:

Since its inception in 1994, Zymo Research has been proudly serving the scientific community by providing innovative, reliable, and high-quality research tools and products. Whether it's DNA, RNA, epigenetics, microbiomics, protein, or yeast-based research, our philosophy remains the same: To provide the highest quality products in the industry while ensuring they are both simple to use and reliable in their performance.

 

Recognized as a Top Workplace by the Orange County Register in 2021, 2022, and named a Top Workplace USA in 2023, Zymo Research continues to be a vibrant community where employees thrive, feel connected, and are inspired by their work. If you are passionate about contributing to scientific advancement and want to be part of an exceptional team in a dynamic, growing company, we'd love to hear from you!

Compensation, Benefits, and Perks:

The estimated base compensation range for this position is $23 per hour at the time of posting. Actual compensation details will be provided in writing at the time of offer, if applicable, and is based on several factors we believe fairly and accurately impact compensation, including geographic location, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other job permitted factors.

Zymo Research also offers competitive benefits and perks including:

• • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Coverages
  • EAP Sessions
  • Vacation Time plus Company Holidays
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Generous 401(K) with matching 
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Complimentary fruit, snacks, and beverages
  • Complimentary catered lunches on Thursdays 
  • Complimentary EV Charging 

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer:

Zymo Research welcomes candidates of all backgrounds. These include sex, age, color, race, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical & mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other protected status as defined by federal, state, or local law.

Location:

Onsite – Zymo Research HQ, 17062 Murphy Ave. Irvine, CA 92614

Disclaimer:

At Zymo, we take the integrity of our hiring process seriously. Please be aware of fraudulent recruitment activities that may use our name to deceive job seekers. We will never ask for payment, sensitive personal information, or financial details during the recruitment process. 

All legitimate communications will come from an official Zymo or TriNet Hiring email address. If you are contacted by anyone claiming to represent us using a free email service (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or asking for payment, please treat this as fraudulent and report it immediately to HR@zymoresearch.com