Senior Lab Operations Associate

Lab Operations Associate

Location:

San Diego, CA (On-Site)

About the Role

We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Lab Operations Associate to support daily laboratory operations within a fast-paced genomics and healthcare-focused environment.

This role offers hands-on exposure to laboratory operations, facilities management, equipment coordination, and environmental health & safety (EHS), making it an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to build a career in lab management or scientific operations.

The Lab Operations Associate will partner closely with scientists, lab users, facilities teams, and external vendors to ensure laboratories remain safe, compliant, efficient, and fully operational.

Key Responsibilities Laboratory Operations & Equipment Management

+ Provide day-to-day operational support for laboratory users and respond promptly to lab-related requests.

+ Coordinate laboratory equipment maintenance, repairs, calibrations, and preventive maintenance activities.

+ Manage equipment documentation, service records, and compliance-related files.

+ Obtain quotes, manage purchasing requests, and track equipment orders through delivery and installation.

+ Coordinate equipment labeling, relocation, installations, and bench assignments to maximize laboratory efficiency.

+ Support laboratory space planning, organization, and workflow improvements.

Safety & Compliance

+ Support hazardous waste management activities, including labeling, storage, vendor coordination, and disposal.

+ Conduct routine laboratory inspections and audits, documenting findings and resolving identified issues.

+ Maintain chemical inventories, labeling systems, and storage records.

+ Promote safe laboratory practices and contribute to a strong culture of safety and compliance.

+ Ensure adequate inventory of PPE, spill response materials, and first-aid supplies.

Laboratory Support

+ Coordinate freezer maintenance programs, including routine defrosting and organization.

+ Provide glassware washing and autoclave support.

+ Assist with inventory management and laboratory supply replenishment.

+ Support laboratory, facilities, and operational improvement projects as needed.

Required Qualifications

+ 2+ years of experience supporting laboratory operations within a biology, chemistry, biotechnology, genomics, life sciences, or related scientific environment.

+ Experience maintaining laboratory equipment and coordinating service, repairs, installations, or equipment records.

+ Working knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, hazardous materials handling, chemical inventory management, and waste disposal practices.

+ Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

+ Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills with a collaborative approach to supporting laboratory users.

+ Strong verbal and written communication skills.

+ Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Excel, Word, and Teams.

+ Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and perform routine physical laboratory support activities.

Preferred Qualifications

+ Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.

+ Experience working within regulated environments such as ISO, IVDR, or other quality management systems.

+ Familiarity with laboratory audits, compliance activities, and chemical inventory programs.

+ Exposure to Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), facilities coordination, or laboratory operations management.

+ Interest in pursuing long-term growth opportunities within lab operations, lab management, facilities, or EHS.

Why Join Us?

+ Gain broad exposure to laboratory operations, facilities, and EHS functions.

+ Work alongside scientists and operational leaders in a cutting-edge genomics environment.

+ Build valuable experience supporting regulated laboratory environments.

+ Opportunity for career growth into Lab Management, Facilities Operations, or Environmental Health & Safety roles.

+ Collaborative culture focused on learning, innovation, scientific integrity, and continuous improvement.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, on-site position based in San Diego, CA. The role operates within an active scientific laboratory environment and requires regular interaction with laboratory personnel, facilities teams, and external service providers. The position involves hands-on work with laboratory equipment, chemical inventories, safety systems, and operational processes.

Job Type & Location

This is a…