Laboratory Assistant

Description

This role contributes to Phlow's mission by supporting laboratory work related to analytical chemistry and process development. The position involves performing laboratory operations activities in Phlow's R&D laboratories located in Richmond and Petersburg, under the guidance of the Senior Director, Analytical Chemistry, or other team members.

This position is a full-time, day shift position, Monday-Friday. The expected schedule will involve rotating days during the week between the Petersburg and Richmond locations.

The team member plays a critical role in ensuring Phlow's ability to conduct contract development and manufacturing services and the successful execution of both internal API development projects and commercial initiatives. Responsibilities include safety and housekeeping, inventory and procurement of supplies, equipment maintenance or calibration, collaborating with scientists to meet business objectives and timelines, and upholding Phlow's shared values and culture in all interactions, both internally and externally.

This role requires maintaining the highest standards of safety, integrity, transparency, and ethics in all aspects of work. By doing so, the team member contributes to delivering outcomes that create win-win scenarios for patients, customers, partners, and colleagues while fostering an innovative and collaborative environment at Phlow.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct daily laboratory operations, including sourcing consumables, troubleshooting, maintaining equipment, and coordinating calibrations with vendors.
• Support laboratory upkeep, including cleaning, inspections, and waste disposal.
• Assist with laboratory receiving and inventory and with maintaining other cGMP documentation.
• Prepare standard solutions, chromatography mobile phases as needed by following provided instructions.
• Engage in a hands-on role, with the majority of responsibilities carried out in the laboratory.
• Work closely with laboratory scientists and EHS, IT, procurement, and QA departments.
• Complete activities within designated timelines while ensuring compliance with cGXP regulations, regulatory requirements, and company procedures.
• Execute assigned tasks with minimal supervision.
• Prioritize safety in all activities, adhering to Phlow's safety policies and guidelines.

Requirements

Experience & Qualifications:

• 1+ year experience working in laboratory settings, including use of analytical balances and pH meters
• Familiarization with safe laboratory practices and chemical hazards
• Reliable transportation to both Richmond and Petersburg locations
• Ability to work well both independently and with a team
• Functional expertise in Microsoft Excel, Word and Teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• A.A. or B.S degree in Chemistry, or related scientific field. Combination of relevant course work or work experience may be substituted for a degree.
• Previous use of eLN or LIMS software systems
• Experience with common analytical techniques such as: HPLC, GC, KF, and LOD

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a laboratory environment, including standing for extended periods.
• Capability to use and handle laboratory equipment
• Manual dexterity for fine manipulations, such as calibrating instruments or preparing samples.
• Frequent walking and movement between workstations, offices, and laboratory spaces.
• Occasional bending, crouching, or reaching to access equipment or supplies.
• Sharp vision for detailed tasks such as reading data, analyzing test results, and inspecting equipment.
• Ability to distinguish color changes in tests and monitor digital displays on instruments.
• Clear hearing for effective communication and responding to audible alarms from laboratory equipment.
• Ability to work in environments with controlled exposure to chemicals, solvents, or other laboratory materials, adhering to safety protocols (e.g., wearing PPE).
• Tolerance for wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, lab coats, and occasionally respirators.