Lab Assistant

Job Description Position: Lab Assistant / Sampling Assistant Department: Laboratory Operations Reporting To: Technical Manager / Laboratory In-charge Applicable Standard: ISO/IEC 17025:2017 (NABL)1. Purpose of the Position To support laboratory testing and/or sampling activities by ensuring proper sample handling, preparation, testing assistance, documentation, housekeeping, and compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 and NABL requirements.

• 2. Key Responsibilities

A. Sample Handling & PreparationReceive, label, log, and store samples as per laboratory SOPs.

• Ensure sample integrity, identification, and traceability.
• Assist in sample preparation (weighing, dilution, digestion, grinding, etc.).
• Maintain proper chain of custody for samples.
• B. Sampling Activities (for Sampling Assistant)Carry out sampling as per approved sampling plans, methods, and SOPs.
• Ensure sampling equipment is clean, calibrated (where applicable), and fit for use.
• Properly label and transport samples to the laboratory under controlled conditions.
• Record environmental conditions during sampling, where required.
• Follow NABL and customer-specific sampling instructions.
• C. Testing SupportAssist analysts during testing as instructed.
• Operate basic laboratory instruments under supervision.
• Clean glassware and laboratory equipment properly.
• Prepare reagents and solutions as per documented procedures.
• D. Equipment & HousekeepingMaintain cleanliness of laboratory, storage areas, and sampling kits.
• Ensure proper storage of chemicals, samples, and consumables.
• Report malfunctioning equipment to the supervisor.
• Assist in routine maintenance and verification activities.
• E. Documentation & Records (ISO 17025 Focus)Maintain accurate records in registers, worksheets, and logbooks.
• Follow document control procedures for formats and records.
• Ensure all activities are traceable and recorded.
• Support internal audits and NABL assessments.
• F. Quality & ComplianceFollow the laboratory’s Quality Manual, SOPs, and policies.
• Comply with impartiality, confidentiality, and integrity requirements.
• Report non-conformities, deviations, or unusual observations.
• Participate in corrective and preventive actions when required.
• G. Health, Safety & EnvironmentFollow laboratory safety rules and use PPE properly.
• Handle chemicals and samples safely.
• Dispose of waste as per laboratory and statutory requirements.
• Report accidents, spills, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• 3. AuthorityTo perform assigned tasks as per approved SOPs.
• To stop work and inform the supervisor if any non-conformity or safety issue is observed.
• 4. Competence Requirements (ISO 17025 Clause 6.2)EducationMinimum: 12th pass / ITI / Diploma / B.Sc. (Science) (as applicable to lab scope).
• ExperienceFresher or 1–2 years experience in laboratory or field sampling preferred.
• SkillsBasic laboratory practices
• Understanding of sampling procedures
• Record keeping and documentation
• Awareness of ISO/IEC 17025 requirements
• Good observation and communication skills
• 5. Training RequirementsISO/IEC 17025 awareness
• Laboratory safety and PPE
• Sampling techniques (if applicable)
• SOP-specific training
• Ethics, impartiality, and confidentiality
• 6. Performance Indicators Accuracy in sample handling and records
• Compliance with SOPs and ISO 17025
• Timely completion of assigned tasks
• Audit observations related to role
• Safety compliance

7. Confidentiality & Impartiality Declaration The Lab Assistant / Sampling Assistant shall maintain confidentiality of all customer and laboratory information and work impartially without any undue influence, as per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.