Lab Operations Associate

BioLabs is a global innovation infrastructure company creating the physical and community backbone that powers life science discovery worldwide. Through a growing network of premium shared laboratories and coworking spaces, BioLabs provides turnkey access to state-of-the-art research facilities, entrepreneurial programming, and deep industry and capital connections. These integrated ecosystems enable innovators - from early-stage founders to established R&D teams - to rapidly translate ideas into impact without the constraints of traditional lab ownership. The BioLabs network now spans major innovation hubs across the United States, Europe, and Asia, serving as a catalyst for collaboration and a launchpad for breakthroughs that advance human health and sustainability. Learn more at www.biolabs.io. 

ROLE OVERVIEW 

BioLabs is seeking to hire a Lab Operations Associate at our Hotel-Dieu site. This is a hands-on role in a shared life science facility for startups, where the Lab Operations Associate is a self-directed individual who takes ownership of laboratory operations and service quality. The individual contributes to the daily operation of laboratories and facilities, responds to resident requests, and helps ensure that equipment, consumables and safety systems are functioning effectively. The ideal candidate is comfortable learning and using a wide range of laboratory instruments and facility equipment. Plus, the role also includes supporting training and supervision of more junior team members and the cleaning crews. This position offers the opportunity to work closely with multiple biotech startups while deepening your skills in lab operations, EHS, and equipment management. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

Maintain laboratory and facility spaces, serving as a point of contact for routine site issues; ensure shared areas are clean, organized, and fully operational, and support receiving and handling of deliveries  

Manage shared laboratory equipment, including coordination of installation, preventive maintenance, cleaning, decontamination, and vendor/service interactions  

Support development and maintenance of SOPs, equipment logs, safety documentation, and operational records in collaboration with site leadership  

Coordinate resident onboarding and offboarding, including space setup, safety and equipment training, access management, and laboratory decommissioning  

Assist with EHS programs and compliance, including chemical, biological, and hazardous waste management, inventory tracking, and maintaining SDS databases  

Manage inventory and purchasing of shared consumables, reagents, gases, and PPE; track usage and collaborate with vendors to ensure availability and cost efficiency  

Maintain accurate databases related to laboratory operations, including chemical and biological risk records  

Provide day-to-day guidance and support to junior staff, interns, or technicians on lab operations, safety practices, and documentation standards  

Contribute to site operations and continuous improvement efforts, including lab layout changes, equipment onboarding, audits, and resident support to foster a collaborative environment

Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS 

Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, biotechnology, genetics, or a related life sciences discipline, or equivalent practical experience

Minimum of two (2) years of experience in an academic and/or commercial research laboratory environment, preferably in a startup or shared lab setting

Practical experience with laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, chemical and biological waste management, and EHS procedures

Experience with inventory management, ordering processes, and use of digital tools for tracking and documentation

Familiarity with cell culture, molecular biology, or microbiology techniques used in research or biotech environments

Hands-on experience with decontamination, maintenance and basic troubleshooting of common laboratory equipment (biosafety cabinets, incubators, centrifuges, microscopes, freezers, etc.). Familiarity with other equipment pieces is a plus

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer service mindset and the ability to work effectively with scientists, vendors, and cross-functional teams

Detail oriented and highly organized, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, including providing guidance to junior staff or interns

Proficient in Microsoft Office or Google Workspace and comfortable using digital systems for operations and documentation

Working proficiency in both French and English (B2 or higher) to support an international environment. 

Ability to lift 15–20 kg and stand for extended periods, as required

Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends to support operations and site needs