Plasma Center Sample Processing Technician

Preparing plasma units for frozen storage and collecting samples directly supports patients with rare diseases by producing vital blood derivatives. Individuals in this position handle the preparation of units for testing and organize shipments to ensure safety and compliance. This hands-on role addresses the growing demand for plasma-derived medicines through meticulous processing.

Takeda operates through BioLife Plasma Services, a subsidiary focused on collecting and processing plasma to create life-changing treatments. The company serves clients worldwide, emphasizing quality and regulatory standards in its donation centers. It employs over 33,000 people globally to deliver innovative specialty pharmaceuticals and patient support programs.

Daily tasks involve preparing plasma units for freezing, storing samples from units, performing maintenance on freezers and refrigerators, organizing shipments of plasma units, managing supplies with inventory control, assisting in loading shipments, and handling proper disposal of materials. Workers use freezers, refrigerators, and follow cGMP procedures for accurate records. Interaction occurs with center supervisors for guidance, fellow employees for quality checks, and management for continuous improvement via tools like 5S and Kaizen. Requires walking and standing all shift, lifting 26-50 pounds, and exposure to cold temperatures from -20C to -40C.

Pay starts at $16 per hour, with full-time hours as a non-exempt employee in West Des Moines, Iowa. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) with company match, short- and long-term disability, basic life insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteer time, company holidays, and up to 80 hours of sick time annually. New hires accrue 120 hours of paid vacation. Additional perks involve short-term incentives and well-being programs.