Laboratory Intern - Commerce, CA

Laboratory Intern

Department: Laboratory Operations
Duration: 10-12 Weeks
Reports To: Laboratory Manager/Director

Program Overview

The Rotational Laboratory Internship Program provides hands-on exposure to multiple functional areas within a regulated laboratory environment. Interns rotate through core departments to develop a comprehensive understanding of laboratory workflow, quality systems, operational efficiency, and cross-functional collaboration.

Rotations may vary by location and business unit but generally include:

• Sample Management / Accessioning
• Laboratory Operations (Technical Departments)
• Quality Assurance & Compliance
• Data Management / Reporting
• Client Services or Project Coordination

Rotation Structure (Example 12-Week Model)

Weeks 1-2: Orientation & Sample Management

Focus: Entry point of laboratory workflow

• Safety and compliance training
• Introduction to LIMS and internal systems
• Assist with sample receipt, logging, labeling, and tracking
• Learn chain-of-custody and documentation control processes
• Observe how turnaround times and priorities are managed

Learning Outcome: Understand how work enters and flows through the laboratory.

Weeks 3-5: Laboratory Operations Rotation

Focus: Core laboratory workflow

• Shadow technical staff in assigned departments
• Assist with routine workflow tasks under supervision
• Follow approved procedures and documentation practices
• Observe workload balancing and scheduling
• Participate in team meetings and operational discussions

Learning Outcome: Understand day-to-day laboratory execution and process consistency.

Weeks 6-7: Data Management & Reporting

Focus: Data integrity and client deliverables

• Observe data review and verification processes
• Assist with administrative data checks
• Learn reporting workflows and approval pathways
• Understand confidentiality and data security practices
• Review how final results are communicated to clients

Learning Outcome: Understand the importance of accuracy, traceability, and reporting standards.

Weeks 8-9: Quality Assurance & Compliance

Focus: Systems that support accuracy and accreditation

• Learn document control processes
• Observe internal audit or quality review activities
• Assist with record organization and review
• Understand deviation tracking and corrective action workflows
• Review regulatory and accreditation frameworks applicable to the lab

Learning Outcome: Recognize how quality systems ensure reliability and compliance.

Weeks 10-12: Capstone Project & Cross-Functional Integration

Focus: Applied learning

Intern completes a structured project such as:

• Workflow efficiency analysis
• Documentation improvement initiative
• Turnaround time evaluation
• Internal process mapping
• Quality trend summary

Responsibilities:

• Analyze observations from rotations
• Develop measurable recommendations
• Present findings to laboratory leadership
• Participate in final evaluation and feedback session

Learning Outcome: Apply operational knowledge to real-world improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Adhere to all safety and compliance policies
• Maintain confidentiality of laboratory and client information
• Follow established procedures and documentation standards
• Demonstrate professionalism and accountability
• Contribute positively to team culture

Program Goals

By the end of the program, interns will:

• Understand the full lifecycle of laboratory operations
• Recognize the role of quality systems in regulated environments
• Develop professional communication skills
• Gain exposure to multiple laboratory career paths
• Build foundational knowledge applicable across all business units

Qualifications

Required:

• Currently a junior or senior pursuing a Bachelor's degree in a scientific, technical, or related field
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Detail-oriented and process-focused mindset

Preferred:

• Interest in laboratory science, regulatory compliance, operations, or quality systems
• Prior technical or laboratory exposure

Schedule & Pay

• $18.46/hr
• 10-12 weeks
• 20-30 per week
• Rotation schedule determined at program start