Technical Lab Manager

BioMADE•Hayward, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Technical Lab Manager is responsible for establishing, managing, and continuously improving Laboratory functions within a Biomanufacturing Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) based in Hayward, CA. This pilot plant will help bridge a gap in the domestic biotech industry (non-pharma), providing clients with emerging fermentation technologies the ability to demonstrate upstream and downstream processes at a scale which supports future commercial scale design. The facility is currently under construction, with expected completion in 2027, and this role will be instrumental in establishing laboratory systems, hiring and developing staff, and standing up operational readiness for first customer runs. This role plays a critical part in enabling successful scale-up by leading laboratory operations with a strong technical focus on microbial culture management, seed train propagation, and aseptic fermentation support. The role ensures laboratory capabilities effectively support process development, pilot-scale production, and customer tech transfer programs. The analytical chemistry functions fall under the Technical Lab Manager’s oversight, so expertise in analytical chemistry or quality systems is preferred but it is not the technical focus of this role. The Technical Lab Manager will be supported by a Lead Analytical Chemist, who—along with the rest of the laboratory staff—will report directly to the Technical Lab Manager. This person will strongly support and advocate a “zero harm” safety culture, proactively engaging employees in this culture. This position reports to the Pilot Facility Manager and works closely with Operations, Process Engineering, Maintenance, and EHS teams. Initially, this role will work a hybrid role in Emeryville/Hayward/Home before the role transitions to a fully, on-site at the facility.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields: Microbiology, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Food Science
Minimum 7 years of experience working in a laboratory supporting fermentation technology, biotechnology, or food manufacturing, including at least 3 years of lab management experience.
Experience with typical microbiology and bench-scale fermentation laboratory operations, aseptic techniques and culture propagation
Strong safety mindset with demonstrated commitment to safe work practices
Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with analytical chemistry techniques and instrumentation, and a working understanding of food safety and quality systems
Experience supporting commercial plants, pilot plants, process development facilities, or multi-site operations
Working knowledge of downstream separations / purification (centrifugation, filtration, drying, etc.)

Responsibilities

Build and manage day-to-day laboratory operations with a strong focus on reliability, responsiveness, and operational readiness
Recruit, hire, train, and develop laboratory staff.
Manage laboratory personnel responsible for analytical testing, microbiological testing, seed train / culture propagation, and fermentation support.
Ensure laboratory operations support process development, fermentation and downstream operations, and product quality requirements.
Lead all microbiology laboratory activities supporting fermentation operations, including: Culture handling, storage, and propagation, including transfer from Lab to Pilot Plant; Aseptic techniques and contamination control; Seed train development and scale-up support, including setting up and running bench-scale fermenters
Partner with Process Engineering and Operations to ensure robust and reliable fermentation performance
Establish best practices for microbial control, sterility assurance, and contamination response
Develop, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for: Microbiology and Fermentation laboratory equipment; Sampling and in-process testing procedures; Culture handling and aseptic practices; Laboratory data management and reporting
Support development and provide oversight for Food Safety and Quality systems.
Ensure SOPs are regularly reviewed and updated, while provide training on: laboratory procedures; aseptic techniques; food safety and quality protocols; laboratory safety
Establish competency and qualification programs for laboratory personnel
Establish preventive maintenance and calibration programs for all laboratory equipment, implementing calibration intervals and maintenance procedures consistent with quality standards.
Work closely with the Maintenance Manager to ensure: all analytical, microbiology, and fermentation laboratory equipment is properly entered into the CMMS system; spare parts and critical components are tracked within the maintenance system.
Develop and maintain vendor relationships for laboratory equipment servicing and calibration.
Identify and maintain inventory levels for all laboratory consumables, including: analytical reagents; microbiological media; culture supplies; PPE and other laboratory standards
Implement inventory management processes to ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
Actively promote and advocate for a “Zero Harm” safety culture throughout laboratory and plant operations.
Proactively engage employees regarding safety concerns and improvement opportunities.
Ensure laboratory operations meet facility safety standards and best practices.

Benefits

100% employer-paid options for medical, dental, and vision
Paid time off that accrues from your hire date
13 paid holidays, including a winter closure between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day
Hybrid work policy for most positions; stipend for internet and personal phone use
401(k) retirement plan with up to 6% match on compensation (no vesting period!)
Discretionary Incentive Plan based on organizational and individual performance
100% employer-paid short-term disability and life insurance
Paid parental leave
Section 125 Flexible Spending Plan for medical and dependent care
Commuter pre-tax benefit
Full access to LinkedIn Learning’s suite for professional development
Free parking, casual dress code, free snacks and beverages, and on-site gym access at both offices
Fun on and off-site employee activities sponsored by the Employee Engagement Committee
And much more