Lab Operations Associate

Job Description: Laboratory Associate

Position Overview
The Laboratory Associate is designed to provide critical support across multiple laboratory locations, including Boston, Cambridge, Lexington, Woburn, Waltham, Andover, and surrounding areas. This position serves as a flexible backup to site-based staff, ensuring seamless laboratory operations during absences, high-demand periods, or special projects. The Laboratory Associate is responsible for maintaining operational efficiency, supporting scientific teams, and upholding compliance with regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations & Support

• Provide backup coverage across designated sites, including support for staff absences, vacations, and callouts.
• Coordinate daily laboratory activities and workflows to maintain continuity of operations.
• Maintain laboratory organization, including inventory management, cleanliness, and waste disposal.
• Monitor supply levels and ensure availability of reagents, consumables, and materials.
• Support ongoing client operations and assist with onboarding/training of BLS portfolio clients.
• Contribute to special projects and initiatives as assigned.

Equipment Maintenance & Calibration

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Coordinate routine servicing, calibration, and repairs with vendors.
• Maintain accurate performance and maintenance logs for all equipment.

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere laboratory safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other relevant regulatory requirements.
• Maintain and update Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Participate in internal audits and implement corrective actions where needed.

Quality Assurance & Documentation

• Ensure compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in all lab activities.
• Document laboratory activities, experimental data, and deviations accurately and in real time.
• Support Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) processes to maintain high operational standards.

Inventory & Vendor Management

• Manage procurement and inventory of laboratory materials to avoid downtime.
• Track and analyze usage trends, optimizing stock levels for efficiency.
• Partner with vendors to negotiate pricing and coordinate deliveries.

Business Development Support

• Identify potential new client opportunities during site visits.
• Build relationships with current clients to enhance satisfaction and retention.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field.
• 2–5 years of experience in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a clean driving record.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent site changes.
• Physical ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs. and operate transport equipment safely.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent documentation practices.
• Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, demonstrating a strong “team player” mindset.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with laboratory safety procedures and hazardous materials handling.
• Experience working in regulated laboratory environments (e.g., GMP, GLP, biotech, pharma, academic research).
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly, problem-solve, and manage competing priorities.