Description:
Laboratory Associate
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
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Provide backup coverage across designated sites, including support for staff absences, vacations, and callouts.
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Coordinate daily laboratory activities and workflows to maintain continuity of operations.
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Maintain laboratory organization, including inventory management, cleanliness, and waste disposal.
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Monitor supply levels and ensure availability of reagents, consumables, and materials.
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Support ongoing client operations and assist with onboarding/training of BLS portfolio clients.
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Contribute to special projects and initiatives as assigned.
Equipment Maintenance & Calibration
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Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and equipment.
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Coordinate routine servicing, calibration, and repairs with vendors.
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Maintain accurate performance and maintenance logs for all equipment.
Safety & Compliance
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Adhere laboratory safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other relevant regulatory requirements.
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Maintain and update Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
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Participate in internal audits and implement corrective actions where needed.
Quality Assurance & Documentation
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Ensure compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in all lab activities.
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Document laboratory activities, experimental data, and deviations accurately and in real time.
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Support Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) processes to maintain high operational standards.
Inventory & Vendor Management
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Manage procurement and inventory of laboratory materials to avoid downtime.
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Track and analyze usage trends, optimizing stock levels for efficiency.
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Partner with vendors to negotiate pricing and coordinate deliveries.
Business Development Support
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Identify potential new client opportunities during site visits.
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Build relationships with current clients to enhance satisfaction and retention.
Requirements:
Required Qualifications
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Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field.
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2–5 years of experience in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry.
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Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a clean driving record.
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Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent site changes.
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Physical ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs. and operate transport equipment safely.
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Strong attention to detail with excellent documentation practices.
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Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, demonstrating a strong “team player” mindset.
Preferred Skills
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Familiarity with laboratory safety procedures and hazardous materials handling.
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Experience working in regulated laboratory environments (e.g., GMP, GLP, biotech, pharma, academic research).
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Strong organizational and communication skills.
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Ability to adapt quickly, problem-solve, and manage competing priorities.
