Lab Operations Executive

About the Role

We are seeking a Lab Operations Executive to establish and oversee operational systems within a research and development laboratory dedicated to early-phase biologics and vaccine development targeting diseases prevalent in developing countries. The role demands maintaining daily operational readiness, managing equipment upkeep, overseeing inventory, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. Promoting continuous operational excellence and liaising with scientific teams are integral parts of this position.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and manage a laboratory inventory system based on customer input, emphasizing just-in-time usage, FIFO methods, and asset management to maintain equipment and facilities.
• Develop and launch a paperless laboratory records approach.
• Ensure smooth, stable, and efficient day-to-day laboratory operations.
• Support health and safety compliance and coordinate audits and inspections.
• Lead operational risk assessments within the lab environment.
• Create, maintain, and optimize laboratory work schedules in collaboration with scientists.
• Plan procurement for routine lab materials and equipment and manage the annual operational budget.
• Lead negotiations and manage contracts with vendors and suppliers.
• Collaborate with third-party service providers to ensure cleanliness and optimal maintenance of laboratory facilities.
• Ensure laboratory operations meet regulatory standards including hazardous substance and flammable materials permits.
• Coordinate annual building power maintenance.
• Drive and promote initiatives focused on operational excellence and sustainability, such as waste and energy reduction and optimization of personnel and material flows.
• Assist in coordination and management of sample and material shipments.

Qualifications and Skills

• Degree or diploma in Chemical, Life Sciences, or related fields with at least 3 years managing laboratory operations.
• Strong enthusiasm for establishing a sustainable, smart laboratory environment by applying Operational Excellence principles.
• Knowledge of hazardous materials handling, classifications, permits, and licenses.
• Experience with inventory and asset management systems preferred.
• Understanding of laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration requirements.
• Familiarity with documentation systems for inventory, procurement, and electronic lab records.
• Experience working under Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) or other GxP systems is beneficial.
• Knowledge of sample/material shipment procedures and regulations is a plus.
• Proficient in report writing, proposal development, and delivering presentations.
• Strong multitasking capability, creativity, and openness to innovative ideas.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, diplomacy, and interpersonal skills.
• Attention to detail and outstanding time and personal management.
• Basic operation and training ability for lab support equipment such as autoclaves, washing machines, fridges/freezers, and temperature monitoring systems, including coordination of their maintenance and calibration.
• Team player with exceptional presentation and communication abilities.
• Certifications in First Aid and Fire/Emergency Management are advantageous.
• Physical ability to operate office equipment and lift loads up to 20kg.

Additional Information

The role involves manual tasks such as handling office equipment and occasional lifting. The executive will also need to engage across functional teams and ensure compliance with various regulations and safety standards while championing operational excellence and sustainability within the lab environment.