Lab Operations Assistant/Associate

Who are we?

About LabCentral

Founded in the heart of Kendall Square in 2013, LabCentral is a network of shared laboratory spaces and scientific communities that serve as a launchpad for high-potential life-sciences and biotech start-ups.

We deliver first-class facility and operational support, skilled laboratory personnel, and an expansive events program designed to add value to the community and promote connectivity ‒ as well as the other critical services and support that early-stage companies need to begin start-up operations.

What is this role?

LabCentral is looking for a Lab Operations Assistant/Associate to join our LabCentral 238 Main Street location in Cambridge, reporting directly to the Associate Manager, Lab Operations. You'll thrive in this role if you have a genuine curiosity about science and hands-on experience in a laboratory, healthcare, or pharmacy setting.

We're seeking a self-starter who will help to maintain the high performing standards of our lab spaces and equipment, and someone who will be the person whom our resident scientists can go to when they need assistance.

What will I do?

Responsibilities

• Provide top-notch customer service, ensuring residents have a positive and productive experience at LabCentral.
• Collaborate with fellow members of the Lab Operations team to maintain shared laboratory spaces (equipment oversight, consumable stocking, general lab upkeep), troubleshoot issues with equipment (e.g. incubator, centrifuge, cold storage, microscope, autoclave, and glass washer).
• Lead lab startup and/or shutdown with support from the Lab Operations team.
• Work collaboratively to prepare lab spaces for new occupancy.
• Advise and instruct residents on proper equipment usage and lab safety.
• Serve as a liaison between residents, vendors, and internal teams to ensure prompt feedback and resolution of concerns.
• Assist in creating and refining standard operating procedures for the labs.
• Participate in an on-call rotation to address urgent lab-related issues outside normal business hours.
• Engage in activities and events that support LabCentral's mission and foster community.
• Support other LabCentral functions as needed

What do I bring?

Desired qualifications

Depending on skills and experience, candidates may be considered at the Assistant or Associate level.

• 0-2 years of practical hands-on experience in a laboratory setting.
• Familiarity and ease working within BSL1/BSL2 lab environment.
• Willingness to learn and engage with a wide variety of lab equipment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite, email, and other common computing tools.
• Ability to work onsite at our location in Cambridge, MA.
• Strong time management, organizational, multitasking, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, essential for building relationships with residents and vendors.

In Your First Six Months, You Will

• Dive into the daily operations of the labs, gaining hands-on experience with equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Complete all relevant training on lab processes and systems, including HAZWOPER, DOT and RCRA certification trainings.
• Engage with the LabCentral community and its residents, learning how to best support their research needs.
• Offer feedback on process improvements as you familiarize yourself with our systems.
• Continue to develop your own skill set and define goals for ongoing professional growth.

Work environment

• Fully onsite during regular business hours
• Ability to sit for long periods, ability to move around an office and lab environment, and ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand
• Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 25 pounds

What do we offer?

Benefits

• Fully Covered Medical, Dental and Vision Premiums: We have you and your dependents covered, including deductible costs.
• Long and Short-Term Disability & Life Insurance: Life can be unexpected; we've got your back.
• Flexible Vacation: Enjoy the flexibility to take the time you need.
• Three Months Fully Paid Parental Leave: We'll help support you during life's important moments.
• 401K Match Up to 6% with Immediate Vestment: Know your future is secure with our 401K match.
• Transportation Reimbursements: We'll cover commuting costs for a parking pass, MBTA, or bike maintenance so you can get to work hassle-free.
• Health & Wellness: Relax and enjoy reimbursements for fitness, yoga, massage therapy, and other holistic health practices.
• Technology Stipend: To ensure you stay connected, we offer a monthly cell phone stipend as well as yearly reimbursements for cell phone repairs.
• Professional Growth: We offer a stipend for continuing education and training to invest in your career growth, and we help ease the burden of student loans by providing reimbursement.
• Fantastic Work Environment: Be inspired by colleagues and residents, and work in vibrant spaces that are stocked with a variety of snacks. Plus, we offer in-house programming on thought-provoking and diverse topics!

Compensation

Our compensation philosophy is intentional and researched to align with average market salaries; comprehensive, generous benefits to support overall well-being; and parity with our existing and future team members. Below details the value of what our compensation package may look like, but specific details pertaining to an individual will vary.

Salary range

$50k-56k along with the potential to earn a bonus of 5-6% based on company performance.

Approximate monetary value of benefits (based off an individual – dependents increase value): $24,000.

Equal Opportunity Employer

LabCentral is committed to building teams that reflect the fabric of the city around us. We welcome all candidates regardless of race, color, ancestry, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, Veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Any other human expressions and experiences not mentioned here are equally welcome.

If you require an accommodation, please let us know. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.