Sample Processing Team Lead

TL;DR

Sample Processing Team Lead (Laboratory): Provide technical leadership and daily coordination in a sample processing laboratory, handling complex biological specimen processing with an accent on accurate documentation, cryopreservation/storage, and QMS-compliant quality investigations. Focus on independent problem-solving, training and competency assessments, and resolving sample/data discrepancies to maintain efficient operations.

Location: Frederick, MD, USA

Salary: $25.72–$38.61 USD

Company

hirify.global operates a biological sample processing laboratory supporting study and quality requirements.

What you will do

• Receive, accession, and process incoming biological samples in laboratory systems, including electronic batch record verification.
• Perform complex sample processing (cell isolations, separation of blood/body fluid components), cryopreservation, thawing, and inventorying specimens into final storage.
• Maintain laboratory readiness by monitoring preventive maintenance, assisting with equipment/supply maintenance, and preparing laboratory reagents.
• Ensure quality and compliance by following and supporting SOPs/controlled documents, conducting spot checks, and leading or assisting quality event investigations and corrective actions.
• Manage data accuracy by performing real-time documentation, reviewing reports, investigating discrepancies/missing specimens, and coordinating discrepancy resolution with collaborators.
• Lead and support staff by training personnel, conducting competency assessments (if approved), prioritizing daily workload, and providing operational guidance during supervisor absences.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, or Life Sciences (or equivalent education/experience) and 4 years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Basic laboratory skills with training in aseptic technique; ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent attention to detail and documentation skills; ability to work well in a group environment.
• Comfortable with Excel and its functions.
• Must be able to read, write, speak fluently, and comprehend English.
• Physical requirements: lift/carry 31–50 lbs (up to 50 lbs overhead with assistance), prolonged standing/sitting/walking, and exposure to freezer temperatures (-20°C to -196°C).

Nice to have

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, or Life Sciences.
• Prior experience with BSI.
• Prior leadership experience.
• Prior experience with automated sample isolation.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Culture & Benefits

• High degree of independence with technical leadership and operational coordination responsibilities.
• Quality-focused environment with QMS compliance, controlled documents, and corrective action ownership.
• Training and competency assessment responsibilities to support laboratory personnel development.
• Work includes freezer environment exposure and hands-on laboratory operations.

Hiring process

• Interview and role-fit evaluation based on laboratory experience, documentation/quality practices, and leadership capability.
• Assessment of English proficiency and practical laboratory/aseptic technique readiness.