Lab Operations Associate

Job Description

BioLabs is a global innovation infrastructure company creating the physical and community backbone that powers life science discovery worldwide. Through a growing network of premium shared laboratories and coworking spaces, BioLabs provides turnkey access to state-of-the-art research facilities, entrepreneurial programming, and deep industry and capital connections. These integrated ecosystems enable innovators - from early-stage founders to established R&D teams - to rapidly translate ideas into impact without the constraints of traditional lab ownership. The BioLabs network now spans major innovation hubs across the United States, Europe, and Asia, serving as a catalyst for collaboration and a launchpad for breakthroughs that advance human health and sustainability. Learn more at www.biolabs.io. 

ROLE OVERVIEW

BioLabs is seeking to hire a Lab Operations Associate at BioLabs University of Toronto at our site in Toronto, Ontario, CAN Reporting to the Lab Operations Manager, the individual in this hands-on role will assist in and coordinate the routine maintenance of a shared laboratory facility while responding to the laboratory and facility-related requests of our resident companies and other staff members, as needed. This position provides an excellent opportunity to support promising startup companies in their most formative years, while developing your own laboratory operations skills in a cutting-edge biotechnology facility.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist and support the management of the laboratory and facility spaces; assist with ordering for site; assist with keeping all spaces and infrastructure clean and in good repair; assist with receiving and delivery activities for resident packages. 

• Support laboratory and facility equipment management – assist with installation, calibrations, preventative maintenance, cleaning, and decontamination of laboratory equipment; ensure proper use, care, and training of equipment by staff and residents; help develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures for equipment use and care. 

• Monitor and maintain lab utilities, including the oversight and safe handling of compressed air systems and gas manifolds to ensure uninterrupted service for resident research. 

• Participate in on- & off-boarding of residents and member companies – discuss safety, space tours, badge access, initial equipment and space training, loaned equipment returns, decommissioning of space and preparation of same for new residents. 

• In collaboration with the site team, contribute to building resident community culture. 

• Assist the site EHS officer – execute all site-related safety programs in line with corporate EHS policies; assist with all hazardous waste stream activities per all federal, state, and municipal regulations and BioLabs policies; help maintain all chemical inventories and SDS databases. 

• Provide excellent customer service with a high level of attention to detail. 

• Other duties as needed. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in biology/chemistry, genetics, or other related life sciences discipline. 

• Minimum of one (1) year experience in an academic and/or commercial laboratory environment and in experience in equipment, decontamination and maintenance, chemical and biological waste management, inventory management and ordering. 

• Experience in the safe transportation, handling and basic maintenance of compressed air systems, pressurized gas cylinders and dDewar's is considered a strong asset. 

• Familiarity with cellular, molecular, and microbiology techniques.  

• Customer service focused, with an excellent work ethic and an optimistic attitude. 

• Detail oriented with specific attention to quality control and a commitment to excellence. 

• Outstanding organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple tasks and/or projects. 

• Must be able to lift over 50 pounds and be able to stand for multiple hours at a time. 

• Capable of reaching equipment interfaces at a 2-meter vertical extension. 

• Respond to and be available for occasional site and lab-related issues outside regular business hours as part of the on-call rotation. 

• Be available to attend occasional off-hour events. 

• Ability to travel to other BioLabs site locations as needed.