POSITION SUMMARY

Umoja is seeking a highly motivated, organized, and detail-oriented Lab Operations and Equipment Supervisor to support multiple teams in Seattle, WA. The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of and experience working in a lab operations team, as well as the general operations of a biology/cell-culture lab. This position will be responsible for overseeing the efficient running of the laboratory and ensuring appropriate maintenance of all laboratory equipment in order to provide uninterrupted support for research activities, as well as other various lab operations. This role will include evaluating current processes as well as establishing new policies and procedures to streamline our lab activities for the research teams and ensuring asset management best practices.

CORE ACCOUNTABILITIES

Specific responsibilities include: 

• Asset Management 
  • Overall responsibility for all company laboratory equipment assets; including manage digital records of all equipment specifications, order information, warranty and service contracts, maintenance histories and any required calibration scheduling
  • Manages preventative maintenance scheduling, service records, and communications with research staff to ensure that laboratory equipment is functional, including troubleshooting with equipment superusers, and when required engaging service technicians
  • Responsible for asset management system, development, implementation, and training materials, including developing policies and procedures
  • Maintain Lab Asset tracking system for asset lifecycle management and to ensure data accuracy for lab equipment/instrument maintenance and calibration scheduling
  • Assist in securing or buying lab equipment from various vendors
  • Submit and track warranties and service contracts
• Laboratory Supervision
  • Drive continuous process improvement by proposing and executing lab operation procedure practices and efficiencies
  • Ensure laboratory facilities are operating safely and efficiently, by establishing laboratory procedures and creating and managing all laboratory-related documentation
  • Serve as the primary point of contact between internal stakeholders and relevant external service providers, including preventative maintenance and repair service technicians for Seattle-based labs
  • On call lead for lab-based emergencies with ability to respond timely, including after hours response and resolution
  • Conduct training and orientation of laboratory procedures for all new users
  • Ensure the maintenance of clean and safe lab environments, including general lab housekeeping
  • Address lab issues and requests in a timely manner
  • Other duties as assigned

The successful candidate will have: 

• Associates degree with minimum of 4 years experience in a laboratory operations and equipment management position
• Experience working within a lab and managing its operations
• Experience working with a team in a fast-paced environment
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
• Possess the ability to work across all levels of the organization; independently and with minimal direction

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or experience in molecular biology, chemistry, biochemistry, virology, chemical/biochemical engineering or related discipline or equivalent experience is a plus.
• Biotech start-up/industry and/or gene therapy experience is a plus
• Team player, respectful of others, and open to new ideas
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently  
• Self-motivated and passionate about operational excellence 
• Great attention to detail, resourceful, and well organized 
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and maneuver 45lbs
• Ability to work onsite 5 days a week
• Ability to work on call and/or on weekends

Salary Range: $86,500 - $105,000