Lab & Operations Manager

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly organized, proactive, and detail-oriented Lab & Operations Manager to serve as the operational backbone of our facility. You will ensure our scientists have a seamless environment to work in by managing everything from high-level EHS compliance to the granular details of daily procurement and facility maintenance.

Even if you feel like you don’t meet all of the qualifications, we encourage you to apply!

Research shows that while men apply to jobs where they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other underrepresented people tend to only apply when they meet 100% of the qualifications. At Cleancard, we welcome diverse perspectives and people who think rigorously and aren't afraid to challenge the status quo. Cleancard is an equal opportunity employer; we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment, free from discrimination or harassment, for all employees.

Key Responsibilities

EHS, Compliance & Maintenance

• Oversee daily lab operations, including bench organization, shared space management, and lab workflow optimization.
• Update the CERS (California Environmental Reporting System) database monthly to ensure full compliance with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards.
• Conduct monthly lab inspections, including testing emergency showers/eyewashes and de-icing freezers.
• Manage the pickup and disposal of hazardous, biological, and electronic waste according to local regulations.
• Oversee yearly calibrations, preventative maintenance, document routine system checks, and act as the first line of defense for troubleshooting equipment malfunctions.
• Ensure all laboratory equipment is calibrated daily before use by the research team.
• Maintain accurate records of calibration, diagnostics, maintenance, and equipment lifecycle.
• Support audits and inspections by providing required documentation and demonstrating compliance.
• Establish and maintain version-controlled SOPs, ensuring they are effectively communicated through training, strictly followed, and regularly audited.

Procurement & Inventory

• Perform monthly physical inventories to track usage and anticipate needs for both lab and office supplies.
• Proactively order supplies to maintain optimal stock levels, ensuring lab operations are never interrupted.
• Restock lab consumables in the lab to ensure that the research team has access to necessary lab materials.
• Maintain chemical inventories, safety data sheets (SDS), sample inventory, biosafety documentation, and waste management programs.
• Generate POs for all goods and services and manage the procurement workflow.
• Assist in tracking lab expenditures to ensure the team stays within quarterly and annual budget targets.

Logistics & Facilities

• Oversee the entire reagent, consumable, and equipment purchasing process including vendor engagement and relationship management, comparative quote assessment and negotiation, tracking deliveries, and budget tracking and management.
• Handle all incoming deliveries and outgoing shipments (including potential hazardous materials).
• Manage the laboratory database (Benchling) by logging all incoming consumables and equipment to optimize operational workflow.
• Manage office supply orders, conference room readiness, and general office "upkeep" to maintain a professional environment.
• Serve as the point of contact for facility management and keycard access.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 2-3 years of previous experience in lab management and operations in biology, diagnostics, or biotech R&D; familiarity with EHS and regulatory reporting.
• Demonstrated experience in managing laboratory operations, equipment, and reagent inventories in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience executing all stages of lab procurement, including negotiating vendor contracts, analyzing comparative quotes, and managing purchase orders against a defined budget.
• Experience designing or managing lab operational systems or databases (Benchling, inventory tools, tracking systems, etc.)
• Proven experience writing and maintaining version-controlled SOPs.
• Outstanding organization, communication, and follow through.
• Experience managing inventory and procurement processes to maintain adequate supplies and resources for laboratory activities. Proficiency with a procurement software is a significant plus.
• Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to anticipate equipment failures or supply shortages before they impact the team.
• Strong interpersonal skills to act as the primary liaison between scientists, facility management, and external vendors.
• Able to handle shipments, move equipment, and perform physical lab inspections.

Why Join Us:

• Be part of a visionary team that is set to change the way diagnostic testing is done.
• Work in a collaborative and innovative environment with leading experts across various fields.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in a fast-paced startup setting.
• Make a tangible impact on healthcare and improve patient outcomes through at-home diagnostics.