Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Glovebox Operator
💰 $45,000 - $70,000 Annually
ManufacturingProductionPharmaceuticalLaboratorySkilled TradesBiotechnology
🎯 Role Definition
The Glovebox Operator is a cornerstone of our production and R&D operations, responsible for the precise manipulation of materials within an isolated environment. This position ensures that all activities, from material handling and processing to assembly and packaging, are performed in strict compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety guidelines, and cGMP regulations. The operator maintains the integrity of the controlled environment, preventing contamination and ensuring the highest quality standards for our products.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Production Technician
- Manufacturing Associate
- Laboratory Assistant
Advancement To:
- Senior Glovebox Operator / Lead Operator
- Production Supervisor
- Quality Control Inspector
Lateral Moves:
- Quality Assurance Associate
- Maintenance Technician
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Safely and proficiently operate glovebox and isolator containment systems according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Perform complex, multi-step processing of sensitive, hazardous, or sterile materials, including weighing, mixing, dispensing, and sampling.
- Execute aseptic manipulations and sterile filtration processes within the glovebox to maintain product sterility and prevent microbial contamination.
- Conduct routine cleaning, sanitization, and decontamination of the glovebox interior, antechambers, and associated equipment to meet stringent cleanliness standards.
- Meticulously document all operational activities, material usage, and process parameters in batch records, logbooks, and electronic systems with a high degree of accuracy.
- Perform integrity testing on gloves, seals, and the overall containment system (e.g., leak rate testing) to ensure a controlled atmospheric environment.
- Manage the transfer of materials, tools, and equipment into and out of the glovebox using proper antechamber and transfer port procedures.
- Monitor and control environmental conditions within the glovebox, such as oxygen levels, moisture, pressure, and temperature, using integrated control systems.
- Assemble and disassemble complex components, fixtures, or product assemblies within the confined space of the glovebox, requiring high manual dexterity.
- Handle and manage hazardous waste generated during operations, ensuring proper segregation, labeling, and disposal according to EHS protocols.
- Perform routine visual inspections of products and components for defects, inconsistencies, or foreign particulate matter throughout the manufacturing process.
- Operate and troubleshoot associated processing equipment, such as vacuum ovens, presses, welders, or analytical scales, integrated with the glovebox.
- Identify and report any process deviations, equipment malfunctions, or out-of-spec conditions to the shift supervisor or lead technician immediately.
- Follow all cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices), GDP (Good Documentation Practices), and safety regulations without exception.
- Change out glovebox gloves and perform minor preventative maintenance tasks as directed by maintenance personnel or operational procedures.
- Actively participate in environmental monitoring programs by collecting surface, air, and personnel samples within the controlled environment.
- Support the validation and qualification of new equipment and processes by executing protocols and documenting results.
Secondary Functions
- Assist in the inventory management of raw materials, consumables, and tooling required for glovebox operations.
- Contribute to the review and revision of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and batch records to improve clarity and process efficiency.
- Collaborate with Quality Assurance, Engineering, and R&D teams to troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions.
- Provide training and mentorship to new or less experienced operators on proper glovebox techniques and safety procedures.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and kaizen events aimed at enhancing safety, quality, and productivity.
- Maintain a clean and organized work area surrounding the glovebox suite in accordance with 5S principles.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Glovebox / Isolator Operation
- Aseptic Technique and Sterile Processing
- cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices)
- SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) Adherence
- Hazardous Material (HazMat) Handling
- Good Documentation Practices (GDP)
- Cleanroom Gowning and Protocols
- Basic Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Environmental Monitoring
- Leak Rate Testing
Soft Skills
- Exceptional Attention to Detail and Precision
- Strong Manual Dexterity and Hand-Eye Coordination
- Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
- Clear Written and Verbal Communication
- Ability to Work Independently and as Part of a Team
- Strong Safety-First Mindset
- Adaptability to Repetitive Tasks and Changing Priorities
- Time Management and Organizational Skills
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
Preferred Education:
Associate's Degree or a technical certificate in a relevant discipline.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Manufacturing Technology
- Engineering Technology
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
1-5 years of hands-on experience in a regulated manufacturing or laboratory environment (e.g., pharmaceutical, medical device, semiconductor, nuclear).
Preferred:
3+ years of direct glovebox or isolator experience in a cGMP-compliant pharmaceutical, nuclear, or semiconductor manufacturing setting.