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Biospecimen Associate I (Monday-Friday, 9:00AM - 5:30PM)

Company Description

Guardant Health is a leading precision oncology company focused on helping conquer cancer globally through use of its proprietary tests, vast data sets and advanced analytics. The Guardant Health oncology platform leverages capabilities to drive commercial adoption, improve patient clinical outcomes and lower healthcare costs across all stages of the cancer care continuum. Guardant Health has commercially launched Guardant360®, Guardant360 CDx, Guardant360 TissueNext™, Guardant360 Response™, and GuardantOMNI® tests for advanced stage cancer patients, and Guardant Reveal™ for early-stage cancer patients. The Guardant Health screening portfolio, including the Shield™ test, aims to address the needs of individuals eligible for cancer screening.

Job Description

About the Role:

The Biospecimen Associate I supports the management of patient samples and provides the link between the Clinical Operations and Client Services teams. The Biospecimen Associate I is responsible for receiving, unpacking, processing, and recording samples sent for laboratory testing under the supervision of the Biospecimen Management Supervisor.  The Biospecimen Associate I has demonstrated an understanding of laboratory workflow.

In addition to the primary role of biospecimen management, there may be a need to provide back-up support (non-testing) to the Analytical and/or Post-Analytical team. It is imperative that the Biospecimen Associate has demonstrated the ability to work independently, but also functions effectively as a member of the Guardant Health team. The nature of the work requires keeping organized records, excellent attention to detail, effective written and verbal communication skills, the ability to multi-task and be flexible with tasks and schedules, and the ability to work independently in a team environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Support the laboratory staff with sample intake, accessioning, and processing of all incoming blood specimens.
  • Responsible for entering and verifying data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) database.
  • Prepare samples for testing by isolating plasma from whole blood.
  • Ability to prepare and document sample transfers to Clinical Operations department for testing.
  • Manage storage of plasma aliquots and blood specimens
  • Escalate or resolve and document any discrepancies, or incomplete, and/or unacceptable specimens.
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment according to the laboratory’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Assist in the organization and upkeep of the laboratory area (daily and weekly maintenance).
  • Work closely with the Analytical, Post-Analytical, and Client Services teams to provide consistent and ongoing support to the entire service department.
  • Communicate test system deviations from the laboratory’s established performance specifications by reporting Nonconforming Event Reports (NCRs).
  • May assist with training of new laboratory personnel and training of new procedures with existing personnel.
  • Report all concerns of test quality and/or safety to the Supervisor or Safety Officer
  • Perform other miscellaneous duties as assigned and assist others as time allows to ensure minimal impact to delivery of results.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of Associate of Arts or equivalent experience required.
  • Bachelor of Arts or Science in Biomedical Laboratory Science, Clinical Science or related field preferred
  • 1-2 years of laboratory work experience preferred.
  • Ability to proactively communicate consistently, clearly, and honestly.
  • Strong computing skills
  • Ability to prepare and maintain records and logs.
  • Ability to integrate and apply feedback in a professional manner.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks with a high emphasis on quality.
  • Solution oriented with ability to escalate issues or problems in a timely manner.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Work Environment:

  • Hours and days may vary depending on operational needs.
  • Standing or sitting for long periods of time may be necessary.
  • May be exposed to hazardous materials, blood specimens and instruments with moving parts, heating or freezing elements, and high-speed centrifugation.
  • Repetitive manual pipetting may be necessary.
  • Some lifting (up to 25 pounds) may be necessary. 

Additional Information

For positions based in Palo Alto, CA or Redwood City, CA, the hourly range for this full-time position is $28.89 to $38.98. The range does not include benefits and, if applicable, overtime, bonus, commission, or equity.

Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including, but not limited to, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. If you are selected to move forward, the recruiting team will provide details specific to the factors above.

Employee may be required to lift routine office supplies and use office equipment. Majority of the work is performed in a desk/office environment; however, there may be exposure to high noise levels, fumes, and biohazard material in the laboratory environment. Ability to sit for extended periods of time.

Guardant Health is committed to providing reasonable accommodations in our hiring processes for candidates with disabilities, long-term conditions, mental health conditions, or sincerely held religious beliefs. If you need support, please reach out to [email protected]

Guardant Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

To learn more about the information collected when you apply for a position at Guardant Health, Inc. and how it is used, please review our Privacy Notice for Job Applicants.

Please visit our career page at: http://www.guardanthealth.com/jobs/

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Average salary estimate

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What You Should Know About Biospecimen Associate I (Monday-Friday, 9:00AM - 5:30PM), Guardant Health

At Guardant Health, we are on a mission to help conquer cancer globally, and we’re looking for a Biospecimen Associate I to join our team in Redwood City, CA, from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. As a vital link between the Clinical Operations and Client Services teams, you will play a crucial role in managing patient samples with precision and care. Your responsibilities will include receiving and processing blood specimens, entering and verifying essential data in our advanced Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and ensuring that all samples are prepared for rigorous testing. Attention to detail and organizational skills will be key as you handle incoming specimens, isolate plasma, and maintain records meticulously. You will collaborate closely with laboratory staff and other teams, ensuring that every sample is managed efficiently and effectively. If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses strong communication skills, and enjoys working both independently and as part of a dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be proactive, solution-oriented, and ready to tackle challenges head-on. If you have an Associate degree or equivalent experience and a passion for the biomedical field, we want to hear from you. Join us as we push the boundaries of precision oncology and support improving patient outcomes worldwide!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Biospecimen Associate I (Monday-Friday, 9:00AM - 5:30PM) Role at Guardant Health
What are the key responsibilities of a Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health?

As a Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health, your primary responsibilities include managing the intake and processing of patient samples, entering data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and preparing specimens for testing. You will also collaborate with different teams to ensure smooth operations and escalate any discrepancies regarding samples to maintain high-quality standards.

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What qualifications are needed for the Biospecimen Associate I position at Guardant Health?

To qualify for the Biospecimen Associate I position at Guardant Health, candidates should ideally have an Associate of Arts degree or an equivalent level of experience. While a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science is preferred, previous laboratory work experience of 1-2 years, strong computing skills, and excellent communication abilities are also important.

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What skills are essential for a Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health?

Essential skills for a successful Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health include strong attention to detail, effective written and verbal communication, and the ability to multitask in a team environment. Being organized and having problem-solving skills to address sample discrepancies are also key traits needed for this role.

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What does the work environment look like for a Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health?

The work environment for a Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health involves both desk work and laboratory activities. Candidates should be prepared for potential exposure to biohazard materials and must be able to comply with safety standards while standing or sitting for extended periods and occasionally lifting items up to 25 pounds.

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What is the pay range for a Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health?

The hourly pay range for a full-time Biospecimen Associate I at Guardant Health, based in Redwood City, CA, is between $28.89 to $38.98. Specific compensation within this range is determined by factors like location, skills, experience, and relevant education.

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Common Interview Questions for Biospecimen Associate I (Monday-Friday, 9:00AM - 5:30PM)
Can you describe your experience with laboratory workflows?

In answering this question, highlight specific instances from your previous roles where you effectively managed laboratory workflows. Discuss your familiarity with processes like sample intake and data verification, emphasizing any relevant tools or technologies you’ve used to ensure accurate results.

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How do you prioritize tasks in a high-volume laboratory environment?

Effective prioritization in a busy laboratory requires a strategic approach. You could say that you regularly assess task urgency, communicate with team members, and keep organized records. Sharing an example where you successfully managed multiple responsibilities can also demonstrate your ability.

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What steps would you take if you encounter a discrepancy with a specimen?

Discuss your proactive approach, such as immediately documenting the discrepancy and informing your supervisor to ensure compliance with laboratory protocols. Giving a specific example where you resolved a similar issue can make your answer more compelling.

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How do you maintain good communication with your team?

Emphasize the importance of clear and consistent communication and give examples of how you share updates, raise concerns, and support team members. Mention tools you use or methods like regular check-ins.

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What experience do you have with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)?

Share your familiarity and hands-on experience with LIMS, focusing on how you've utilized it to enter, manage, and verify laboratory data. Pointing out any specific systems you've worked with can enhance your answer.

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Can you discuss your attention to detail in handling samples?

Speak to specific practices you follow to ensure accuracy in sample handling, such as double-checking entries or maintaining organized records. Providing an example of a task where your attention to detail positively impacted results can strengthen your response.

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How would you handle a stressful situation in the lab?

Focus on your calm demeanor and ability to prioritize in high-pressure situations. You could discuss techniques like taking a moment to regroup or following a checklist to ensure all duties are completed accurately under stress.

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What interests you the most about working in the biospecimen management field?

This is a great opportunity to show your passion for the field. Discuss how working with samples directly impacts cancer research and patient care excites you, and convey your motivation to contribute to such meaningful work.

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How do you deal with feedback and criticism?

Approach this question by expressing your openness to constructive feedback, explaining how you view it as a chance to improve. Share an example of a situation where you applied feedback effectively in a previous role.

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Do you have experience training others in a laboratory setting?

If applicable, recall specific instances where you assisted in training new staff. Highlight your methods for conveying knowledge and ensuring new team members grasp essential protocols and safety measures, showing your leadership potential.

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Guardant Health is a mission-driven company where patients are the inspiration that drives us every day. By connecting with patients and caregivers, we gain insights into the challenges they face at all stages of the journey. When you join us, you...

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