Lab Operations Associate – Innovation Labs

University of Texas at Austin

1d • Onsite

About The Position

UT Discovery to Impact Innovation Labs is a brand-new, state-of-the-art 10,000-square-foot bio-science incubator designed to be a launchpad for innovative startup companies. Our role is to support companies as they discover, create, and build technologies to improve the human experience through solving real-world problems. The Lab Operations Associate will support the Innovation Labs Manager in the daily operations, maintenance, and development of this program. This hands-on role is essential in ensuring the smooth functioning of a shared laboratory facility, assisting with equipment and facility management, safety compliance, training, and support for company members.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., biology, chemistry, bioengineering) OR High school diploma with two years of equivalent experience.
• Training in a scientific discipline (e.g., biology, chemistry, bio-engineering) or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in an academic or commercial laboratory including operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Working towards a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., biology, chemistry, bioengineering)
• Familiarity with laboratory safety programs and hazardous waste procedures.
• People-first focus with an optimistic attitude.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to excellence.
• Must be able to lift over 50 pounds and be able to stand for multiple hours at a time.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with bio-science laboratory settings, including experience with cellular, molecular, and microbiology techniques.
• Experience with quality systems and inventory management.
• Knowledge of UT systems and procedures (EHS, BFS).
• Experience supporting startup or incubator companies.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the day-to-day operations of the facilities, including people-first client support, equipment and facility management, safety, quality assurance, and inventory management.
• Serve as a point of contact for lab and building issues.
• Assist with installing, calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Perform routine checks of equipment and keep maintenance logs up to date.
• Sterilize and clean glassware.
• Coordinate with vendors for equipment maintenance and repair.
• Provide training and ensure proper use of equipment by company members and staff.
• Support implementation and maintenance of equipment scheduling systems.
• Assist in implementing and maintaining all UT EHS and lab safety programs, including use of PPE, proper chemical hygiene, chemical inventory tracking and hazardous waste disposal.
• Assist in creating and updating standard operating procedures for equipment use, maintenance, training, and safety protocols.
• Ensure all spaces and infrastructure are clean, sanitary, and in good repair.
• Assist in coordinating with UT Facilities, building management, and custodial staff to address maintenance, installation, repair, and construction needs.
• Prepare space for new companies to join and ensure proper move out procedures are followed.
• Organize, track, and manage inventory of lab consumables and break-room provisions.
• Assist with purchasing and receiving.
• Optimize resource use.
• Provide hands-on training for equipment use, safety programs, security, and emergency preparedness.
• Assist in on- and off-boarding company members.
• Coordinate with Human Resources and Environmental Health and Safety to ensure appropriate processes are followed.
• Provide daily support to company members to optimize research productivity.
• Support tours, events, and marketing efforts to promote the Innovation Labs and engage with the startup and research community.
• Contribute to a vibrant and growing culture of innovative bio-science startups.
• Other duties as needed

Benefits

• Competitive health benefits (employee premiums covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)
• Voluntary Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance options
• Generous paid vacation (8 hours/month), paid holidays (10+/year), sick time (8 hours/month), and longevity pay
• Teachers Retirement System of Texas, a defined benefit retirement plan, with 8.25% employer matching funds
• Additional Voluntary Retirement Programs: Tax Sheltered Annuity 403(b) and a Deferred Compensation program 457(b)
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
• Robust free training access through LinkedIn Learning plus professional conference opportunities
• Tuition assistance
• Expansive employee discount program including athletic tickets
• Free access to UT Austin's libraries and museums with staff ID card
• Free rides on all UT Shuttle and Austin CapMetro buses with staff ID card

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree