Lab Operations Associate

About the Role

The Lab Operations Associate will keep the lab ready for research and carry out the equipment and workspace changes scientists need. This role involves coordinating with other Lab Ops associates and Unity Lab Services (ULS) to ensure clear priorities, coverage, and handoffs. It combines hands-on setup and troubleshooting with service coordination and daily checks of ULS work.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily lab operations with other Lab Ops associates and the on-site Unity Lab Services (ULS) team.
• Set priorities and coverage.
• Check completion and quality of recurring work (e.g., glassware, autoclaving, waste-bin resets, restocking, incubator water, ethanol refills).
• Follow up on gaps in work.
• Provide hands-on backup when ULS is unavailable or essential work needs immediate attention.
• Maintain current and accurate work records:
• Document equipment moves and configurations.
• Document troubleshooting, service visits, and completed tasks in existing team systems.
• Update relevant equipment and maintenance records.
• Ensure lab equipment is working and ready for use:
• Support installation and configuration.
• Source compatible parts.
• Troubleshoot problems.
• Handle minor mechanical repairs under the guidance of the Head of Labs.
• Coordinate mechanical vendors and equipment service providers.
• Prepare for vendor visits.
• Communicate downtime.
• Follow repairs and maintenance through to completion.
• Verify equipment functions as expected before returning to use.
• Support the lab's supply chain:
• Coordinate routine stocking and receiving with other Lab Ops associates and ULS.
• Handle equipment deliveries and unpacking.
• Assist with moving equipment into place.
• Resolve missing or damaged shipments.
• Ensure shared supplies are available.
• Promptly store temperature-sensitive materials.
• Maintain a safe operating environment:
• Conduct walkthroughs and hazard checks.
• Coordinate waste pickups and records.
• Maintain safety labels and signage.
• Follow through on inspection actions under EH&S guidance.
• Serve as the first line of defense for facility issues:
• Triage gas, water, cold-storage, and other utility problems.
• Coordinate on-site vendor access and planned utility work.
• Verify that affected equipment is safely shut down and returned to operation.
• Respond to day-to-day lab requests:
• Clarify researcher needs and urgency.
• Coordinate with other Lab Ops associates and ULS.
• Keep researchers informed of progress.
• Stay flexible as priorities shift.
• Follow through on open items.
• Implement practical changes to improve the lab:
• Set up and reconfigure benches and equipment.
• Mount accessories.
• Organize shared storage and point-of-use supplies.
• Check space, parts, and utility requirements.
• Coordinate changes to gas and vacuum connections.
• Confirm completed setups are ready for use.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Multidisciplinary technical fluency: Ability to understand scientist needs from a bench or instrument and work through practical requirements.
• Mechanical aptitude and a hands-on approach: Comfort using basic tools, troubleshooting equipment installation, parts sourcing, and minor repairs.
• Strong operational foundation: Experience in Life Sciences or Facility Management, understanding of wet lab realities.
• Builder’s mindset: Ability to identify recurring problems and implement practical improvements.
• Vendor coordination experience: Ability to coordinate mechanical vendors and equipment service providers, clearly explain issues, and confirm needs.
• Execution discipline: Taking ownership of tasks and projects with minimal guidance, anticipating dependencies, and following through.
• Adaptability: Comfort moving between planned lab changes, urgent equipment issues, and daily operational coverage.

Qualifications

• Experience in Life Sciences or Facility Management.
• Familiarity with the physical realities of a wet lab, including cold chain logistics and hazardous waste streams.

Compensation Range: $95K - $120K