Lab Operations Manager

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively maintain lab supplies and consumables inventory; monitor consumption, support forecasting and capacity planning, interact with vendors, and manage delivery areas.
• Support SMDD capital purchasing: facilitate capital project identification, prioritization, and submission.
• Partner with maintenance and equipment teams to ensure equipment is installed, qualified, maintained, and repaired efficiently.
• Support laboratory instrument system owners; guide connecting new instruments to data management systems.
• Standardize material cold storage (refrigerators/freezers) using best practices for inventory management, alarm response, and storage; oversee routine defrosting/cleanouts.
• Serve on the SMDD safety committee: facilitate lab inspections and reporting, lead periodic lab cleanouts/housekeeping, handle prior chemical approval/expiration authorizations, and partner with HSE on safety initiatives.
• Manage vendor interfaces; serve as single point of contact for lab glassware and lab waste removal across SMDD labs.
• Identify and implement opportunities to increase lab efficiency (equipment utilization, sample handling).
• Translate operational challenges into actionable goals and deadlines for scientists.
• Use working knowledge of IT infrastructure/software relevant to the role; troubleshoot basic issues and adapt to new systems.

• BS in a science/technical field with 4+ years’ Biotech/Pharmaceutical experience (or HS Diploma with 8+ years’ equivalent experience).
• Ability to work with laboratory personnel, contractors, vendors, and management.

• 2+ years direct lab management experience; experience in lab setup, lab management, procurement, and inventory management.
• Ability to influence beyond formal reporting lines; customer-focused; strong verbal/written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong computer skills (e.g., MS Excel, Edge, PowerPoint, Word) to compile, summarize, and present information.

• Possible exposure to chemicals, allergens, and loud noises.
• No travel outside the Indianapolis area.

• Anticipated wage: $65,250 - $148,500.
• Full-time employees may be eligible for company bonus and a comprehensive benefits program including 401(k), pension, vacation, medical/dental/vision, flexible benefits, life insurance, time off/leave, and well-being benefits.