What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Operations Manager position at PineTree Therapeutics Inc?
About Pinetree Therapeutics:
Pinetree therapeutics is revolutionizing protein degradation-based therapies to combat drug resistance in oncology and beyond. Our AbReptorTM platform targeted degradation of membrane-bound and extracellular proteins, supporting the development of next-generation biotherapeutics. Since our founding in 2019, we have built a robust preclinical pipeline and are rapidly growing our research and development capabilities.
We are seeking a Lab & Operations Manager to oversee daily laboratory operations, compliance, logistics, and administrative functions. This role ensures that our research teams operate in a safe, efficient, and well-organized environment while also supporting business operations.
Position Summary:
The Lab & Operations Manager will be responsible for maintaining the efficiency and safety of Pinetree’s laboratory operations and administrative processes. This role requires strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills to manage laboratory logistics, inventory, equipment maintenance, compliance with safety regulation, vendor relationships, and cross-functional collaboration.
This is a hands-on role that will require the candidate to proactively identify operational challenges, troubleshoot issues, and implement best practices to streamline workflows. The successful candidate will be the go-to person for lab-related support, fostering an environment of efficiency, teamwork, and innovation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Laboratory Operations & Compliance
- Oversee day-to-day lab activities, ensuring an efficient and well-organized research environment.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for internal teams and external vendors, including facilities, Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC), regulatory bodies, service providers, and suppliers.
- Develop and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for lab workflows, safety, and compliance.
- Maintain inventory management systems for tracking reagents, consumables, and experimental materials (e.g., preclinical samples, test articles, and cell banks).
- Ensure proper handling, documentation, and disposal of hazardous materials, including compliance with OSHA, EPA , and local/state safety regulations.
- Manage and oversee annual permits, certifications, and lab compliance documentation to ensure operational continuity.
- Establish and enforce PPE policies, biosafety rules, and emergency protocols
- Equipment & Facility Oversight
- Oversee purchasing, setup, calibration, and maintenance of lab equipment to minimize downtime.
- Mange service contracts, preventive maintenance, and troubleshoot equipment failures to ensure uninterrupted research activities.
- Coordinate facility upgrades, lab expansions, or reconfigurations as needed.
- Mange lab infrastructure needs, including organization of workspaces, storage optimization, and water management.
- Oversee incoming and outgoing shipments of laboratory materials, ensuring regulatory compliance for imports/exports.
- Budgeting & Procurement
- Assist in managing the lab operations budget, monitoring expenses, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
- Oversee lab procurement and supply chain logistics, ensuring timely ordering, cost efficiency, and inventory optimization.
- Develop and maintain relationships with vendors, negotiating contracts and service agreements to ensure high-quality, cost-effective solutions.
- Team Training & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Provide training and mentorship to research and lab personnel on best practices in lab safety, compliance, and operational protocols.
- Act as the liaison between the scientific team and the administrative team, facilitating communication and efficient workflows.
- Work with HR on hiring, onboarding, and offboarding of lab staff, ensuring smooth transitions and compliance with safety and operation standards.
- Support company-wide initiatives, including team meetings, retreats, and training workshops.
- Business Operations & Administrative Support
- Support administrative functions, including facility operations, IT coordination, and event planning.
- Oversee employee benefits programs, ensuring smooth administration and compliance.
- Assist in the implementation of company-wide policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- B.S or A.S in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Immunology, or related field
- 5 years of experience in lab operations, research support, or facility management (biotech/pharma experience preferred).
- Strong knowledge of laboratory best practices, compliance requirements, and biosafety protocols.
- Hands-on experience with cell culture, aseptic techniques, and lab instrumentation.
- Excellent organizational, leadership, and project management skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work across teams and engage with vendors and external partners.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and laboratory management software (LIMS, ELN, inventory tracking).
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills with proactive mindset.
- Ability to manage multiple projects, competing priorities, and tight deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior experience in lab operations, compliance management, or research facility coordination.
- Familiarity with budget planning, cost analysis, and procurement negotiations.
- Knowledge of biologics, hazardous materials handling, and environmental health & safety (EHS) policies.
- Experience with high-throughput screening technologies and automation systems.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit at a desk and work on a computer for extended periods.
- Frequent standing, bending, and movement within the lab.
- Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally.
Why Join Pinetree Therapeutics?
At Pinetree we believe that skills are transferable, experience comes in many forms, and passion makes a difference. If you meet most of the qualifications but don’t check every box, we encourage you to apply. We value diverse perspectives and innovative thinkers who are eager to contribute to cutting-edge biotech research.
Benefits:
- 401(k) & 401(k) Matching
- Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Paid Time Off & Parental Leave
- Career Development Opportunities & Cross-Functional Training.