Lab Operations Manager

Job Description

Seeking a detail-oriented Lab Operations Manager to support daily operations of a 15,000 ft automated lab facility that features 200+ state-of-the-art instruments for molecular biology and chemistry research, including chemical synthesis, molecular analysis, and cell culture capabilities.

This Automated Lab supports a broader AI for science initiative, requiring flexible configuration for diverse experiments in chemistry, chemical biology, life sciences, and environmental research. The successful candidate will ensure smooth, safe laboratory operations while supporting faculty, postdocs, students, and research staff. This role will evolve as the lab grows, requiring someone with scientific expertise, operational leadership, and an entrepreneurial mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee daily operations of research lab spaces, ensuring efficiency and regulatory compliance

Supervise equipment maintenance, calibration, and vendor coordination for repairs

Implement and enforce comprehensive safety protocols (EH&S, OSHA, biosafety, chemical hygiene, hazardous waste management)

Conduct safety training and onboarding for all lab members

Develop and maintain SOPs for equipment use, waste handling, and laboratory workflows

Facilitate lab transitions, setups, and relocations

Foster collaborative environment and support ongoing research projects

Train and supervise laboratory technicians and assistants

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, or related scientific/engineering discipline (MS/PhD preferred)

3–5 years managing lab operations in academic or applied research environment

Working knowledge of laboratory safety, chemical hygiene, and biological waste management

Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience with lab procurement systems and record maintenance

Ability to work independently and manage teams in fast-paced academic environment

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with institutional research compliance procedures

Familiarity with lab software, databases, and analysis tools

Grant budgeting or administration experience

Knowledge of specialized chemistry/biology research equipmentCompany Description

Real People. Real Connections. Real Results.

That's the Messina Talent Advantage.

For more than 40 years, Messina's Talent practice has continuously evolved to meet the needs of our clients. We not only help our clients fill roles and build their teams, but we also help them better understand their workforce and develop strategic talent initiatives that drive value for their organizations.

Messina Talent Advisors, a Messina Group Company, has the network, proven processes, and all the latest technologies to connect the right candidates with the right jobs - faster.