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Portal Innovations · 1 day ago

Laboratory Associate

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Onsite

Entry Level

$70K/yr - $80K/yr

1+ years exp

Portal Innovations is a biotech venture development engine focused on early-stage life science enterprises. The Lab Operations Associate will assist in the routine operation of a shared laboratory incubator space, supporting member companies and ensuring effective lab operations and customer service delivery.

Biotechnology

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

On-site presence during core work hours required, occasionally early morning, evening, weekend, and/or holidays may be required

Qualification

Laboratory experienceEquipment maintenanceChemical waste managementAnalytical equipment (HPLC)Biology/Chemistry degreeCustomer service skillsProcess optimizationScientific troubleshootingOrganizational skillsCommunication skills

Required

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

Experience with analytical equipment (HPLC, flow cytometer, etc.) a plus

Familiarity with cellular, molecular, and microbiology techniques

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

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

Benefits

Excellent Medical, Dental and Vision

Life and Disability Benefits

Flexible PTO Policy

Generous Parental Leave

401K Program

In Office Perk: Unlimited Coffee and Snacks to keep you going throughout the day

Company

Portal Innovations

Portal Innovations is a premier venture development engine that bridges scientific ideation in life sciences, medtech, and bioinformatics through commercial proof of concept by delivering seed capital, specialized equipment, lab space, and management expertise to high-potential early stage companies.

Founded in 2020

Chicago, Illinois, USA

11-50 employees