Lab Manager - HECM

Texas A&M University System • McAllen, TX

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Laboratory Manager coordinates the setup, distribution, oversight, and maintenance of supplies, equipment, and workflows in teaching and research laboratories. At HECM, this position will lead the establishment and operation of a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL‑2) laboratory supporting molecular diagnostic testing of infectious pathogens in animal and environmental samples. The role ensures efficient laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, biosafety adherence, and high‑quality support for faculty, students, and research collaborators.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Five years of experience in a research or diagnostic laboratory.
• Ability to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include communications systems, computer networks and systems, cybersecurity systems, electrical grid, hazardous waste treatment system or water treatment system.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a BSL‑2 laboratory.
• Demonstrated experience performing PCR and molecular diagnostic techniques.
• Experience in laboratory management or equivalent responsibilities.
• Supervisory or project management experience.
• Experience setting up or managing a research laboratory.
• Familiarity with laboratory quality systems and regulatory compliance processes.
• Experience performing real‑time PCR assays.
• Strong organizational, communication, and supervisory skills.
• Experience working with confidential or sensitive health‑related information.

Responsibilities

• Establishes and manages a BSL‑2 laboratory, including acquisition, calibration, and maintenance of scientific equipment.
• Equips students and researchers with instruments, disposable supplies, chemicals, and molecular diagnostic materials.
• Performs and oversees PCR and other molecular diagnostic assays.
• Disposes laboratory waste according to biosafety and chemical safety regulations.
• Ensures proper operating conditions of laboratory equipment and assists with special projects supporting research and diagnostics.
• Supports research activities by coordinating with faculty, graduate students, collaborators, and institutional core facilities.
• Trains students, staff, and researchers in laboratory techniques, biosafety practices, and proper use of instrumentation.
• Supervises student workers and manages their schedules, duties, and performance expectations.
• Maintains updated trainings and certifications in laboratory safety procedures; contributes to the creation and teaching of laboratory manuals.
• Participates in departmental and laboratory‑related meetings.
• Ensures procedures are carried out appropriately and issues are addressed promptly.
• Develop, implement, and maintains quality assurance manuals, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), validation of laboratory procedures, check sample programs, and record control.
• Ensures adherence to Federal, State, TAMUS, and university safety regulations and maintains documentation for regulatory compliance.
• Organizes laboratory supplies in teaching labs and stockrooms; maintains inventory of equipment, instruments, and chemicals.
• Re‑stocks supplies, places and receives orders, and maintains documentation of received materials.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Free exercise programs and release time
• All employees have access to free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more
• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level