Laboratory Operations Associate

Portal Innovations LLC•Chicago, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Portal Innovations is seeking a dynamic and collaborative Lab Operations Associate to join the UChicago Science Incubator. The UChicago Science Incubator is a University of Chicago initiative managed in partnership between the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago and Portal Innovations. The incubator supports innovative science-based companies in the areas of life sciences, quantum, energy technology, and AI. Reporting to the Manager of Lab Operations, the Lab Operations Associate will assist in the routine operation of the shared laboratory incubator space to provide full support to our member companies and partners. We are looking for a collaborative and self-directed individual who enjoys working in a startup environment and will work collaboratively with the incubator team. The Lab Operations Associate will champion high performance of the site by assisting with facilities and laboratory operations, customer service delivery, and environmental health/safety. The Lab Operations Associate will also support communication and onboarding of safety and compliance information to members. This position provides an excellent opportunity to support promising startup companies in their most formative years while developing laboratory and business skills in a cutting-edge facility.

Requirements

Strong communication skills
Excellent Customer Service Skills; display a professional can-do attitude
Perform duties with the highest regard for safety and quality
Must be able to lift up to 25lbs minimum and be able to stand for multiple hours at a time
Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office with proficiency in Word and Excel
Minimum of one (1) year experience in a laboratory environment, experience in equipment cleaning and maintenance, chemical and biological waste management
Bachelor of Science Degree, preferably in biology/chemistry, genetics, or related discipline
Outstanding organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple tasks and/or projects, inventory management and ordering
Experience handling BSL-2 materials, hazardous chemicals and waste, and compressed gas
Desire to work in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment, wear multiple hats
Strong process optimization skills and scientific troubleshooting skills

Nice To Haves

Experience with analytical equipment (HPLC, flow cytometer, etc.) a plus
Familiarity with cellular, molecular, and microbiology techniques

Responsibilities

Perform preventative maintenance (PM), and routine maintenance on shared equipment.
Develop standard operating procedures for the start-up and shutdown of shared equipment. Provide basic operating training on common laboratory equipment.
Assist in obtaining quotes, preparing purchase orders, and following up with vendors for laboratory, office, and facilities of equipment, goods, and consumables.
Ensure that hazardous and biohazardous materials are correctly handled and stored.
Maintain and monitor cryogenic gas and dry ice usage.
Support upkeep and cleanliness of common lab areas, including but not limited to, changing gas cylinders, logging packages, and ensuring compliance with SOPs.
Assist in daily walkthroughs of the sites and help troubleshoot any issues that may arise
Provide back-up support to ensure shipments are received, processed, and recipients notified utilizing package tracking software.
Support SOP creation and validation.
Support member experience by participating in onboarding and offboarding processes, and periodic member meetings.
Answer member questions and create a welcoming environment. Help the incubator team foster a collaborative, supportive culture.
Provide support to staff, member companies, vendors, and visitors with respect to customer EHS standards adherence.
Assist with the organization and preparation of Safety Committee meetings. Support execution of action items.
Assist with safety planning and preparation (e.g., evacuations.) Assist the Operations Manager in completing incident reports.
Coordinate with the Operations team to prepare the site for inspections within laboratories and facilities, EHS, and security. Monitor completion of corrective actions.
Assist with liquid and solid waste pickups and proper storage of chemical and biohazard waste.
Additional duties include keeping lab, office, and kitchen spaces clean and well-stocked and acting as a responder for equipment alarms and laboratory or facility emergencies