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Lab Operations Associate Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Materials R&D Technician

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... lab operations to support materials and process development, failure investigations, process ... Associate degree in an applied science field or 2+ years of professional experience in a lab ...

Accelsius, LLC

Engineering Lab Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

Identify opportunities to improve lab processes, test methodologies, and operational efficiency ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a technical field preferred, but equivalent practical ...

Adecco

Engineering Lab Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$30 - $37.50/hr

... drawings, Operational Method Sheets (OMS) and management of changes (MOC) · Ability to build ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

SpaceX

Materials R&D Technician

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Maintain safe and efficient operations by enforcing proper workflow, safety, cleanliness ... Associate degree in an applied science field or 2+ years of professional experience in a lab ...

Graphcore

Senior Lab Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Laboratory Operations * Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory and assembly workspace ... Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on experience in electronics ...

Graphcore

Senior Lab Technician

Austin, TX

$18.75 - $25/hr

Laboratory Operations * Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory and assembly workspace ... Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on experience in electronics ...

Natera

Equipment Associate I

Austin, TX · On-site

The Equipment Associate will be the primary point of contact for R&D lab personnel regarding safe equipment operations and equipment services. The Equipment Associate is also responsible for ...

Ascension

Cath Lab Tech

Austin, TX

$2.2K - $3.0K/wk

Implement strict radiation safety protocols and quality improvement standards to ensure operational ... We empower our 97,000+ associates to bring their skills and expertise every day to reimagining ...

Ascension

Cath Lab Tech

Cedar Park, TX

$2.1K - $2.8K/wk

Implement strict radiation safety protocols and quality improvement standards to ensure operational ... We empower our 97,000+ associates to bring their skills and expertise every day to reimagining ...

Natera

Equipment Associate I

Austin, TX

$19.90 - $25/hr

The Equipment Associate will be the primary point of contact for R&D lab personnel regarding safe equipment operations and equipment services. The Equipment Associate is also responsible for ...

Natera

Equipment Associate I

Austin, TX · On-site

$19.90 - $25/hr

The Equipment Associate will be the primary point of contact for R&D lab personnel regarding safe equipment operations and equipment services. The Equipment Associate is also responsible for ...

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Lab Operations Associate information

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$26

$52

How much do lab operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations associate in Austin, TX is $26.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $30.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the duties of lab operations?

Lab operations involve managing daily laboratory activities such as preparing and maintaining equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and coordinating sample handling and data recording. The role often requires attention to detail, organization skills, and familiarity with laboratory tools and procedures.

What is a lab operations associate?

A lab operations associate is responsible for supporting laboratory functions such as managing supplies, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often assist with sample processing, data entry, and may use laboratory information management systems (LIMS). This role typically requires attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of lab procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Operations Associates, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab Operations Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining strict compliance with safety protocols, and ensuring timely supply inventory. Successfully meeting these challenges requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and clear communication with both lab technicians and management. Proactively prioritizing tasks and regularly reviewing inventory and safety procedures can help maintain smooth lab operations and contribute to a collaborative and efficient work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Operations Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Operations Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, inventory management, and safety protocols, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a life science field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), inventory tracking software, and standard lab equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure smooth laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, and reliable support for scientific research or testing.

What is the difference between Lab Operations Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab Operations AssociateLaboratory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications may enhance prospectsUsually requires an associate degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentSupports lab workflows, manages supplies, and maintains equipmentPerforms testing, sample analysis, and data recording
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in healthcare, biotech, and research labs for operational supportFound in clinical, pharmaceutical, and research labs for technical testing

The Lab Operations Associate primarily handles logistical and support tasks within the lab environment, ensuring smooth operations. In contrast, the Laboratory Technician focuses on performing technical tests and analyzing samples. Both roles are essential in lab settings but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What is the role of an operations associate?

A Lab Operations Associate is responsible for managing laboratory workflows, maintaining equipment, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and supporting daily lab activities. They often handle inventory, data entry, and coordinate with team members to ensure efficient lab operations.

What are Lab Operations Associates?

Lab Operations Associates are professionals who support the daily functioning of scientific laboratories. Their responsibilities often include managing lab supplies, maintaining equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and assisting with sample processing or data entry. They work closely with scientists and technicians to ensure experiments and research activities run smoothly. This role is essential for maintaining an organized and efficient laboratory environment.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying roles are often senior scientists, laboratory directors, or principal investigators, who typically hold advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions involve overseeing research, managing teams, and ensuring compliance, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and location.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Operations Associate jobs in Austin, TX? For Lab Operations Associate jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Operations Associate jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Operations Associate jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Lab Operations Associate jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Lab Operations Associate job openings:
Lab Operations Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Operations Associate job openings in Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,096 per year, or $26 per hour.
Materials R&D Technician

Materials R&D Technician

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

MATERIALS R&D TECHNICIAN 

In this role as a Materials R&D Technician, you will focus on daily lab operations to support materials and process development, failure investigations, process control validation, and more-for Starlink user terminals, gateways, printed circuit boards, panel-level packaging, and solar products. Hands-on laboratory experience is required. A basic understanding of materials science fundamentals is preferred. The ideal candidate is highly skilled in setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment. Success in this role requires being hands-on, flexible, a quick learner, organized, detail-oriented, and having a collaborative, results-oriented attitude.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintain safe and efficient operations by enforcing proper workflow, safety, cleanliness, organization, and inventory control of lab consumables.
  • Support maintenance and calibration needs of lab instrumentation.
  • Ensure proper and consistent sample preparation and traceability for materials testing.
  • Calibrate, maintain, troubleshoot, and operate thermoanalytical equipment (DSC, DMA, TGA, TMA); microscopy tools (FTIR, Raman, SEM/EDS); RF equipment (VNAs, dielectric testers); optical spectroscopy equipment (spectrophotometers, ellipsometers, photoluminescence) and mechanical test frames. 
  • Prepare reports on generated materials test data. Provide basic interpretations of results to requesters and flag off-nominal results for engineering review.
  • Summarize data and document results in an organized and thorough manner. 
  • Develop, author, and implement standard operating procedures.
  • Manage lab backlog and ensure requests are performed according to program priorities.
  • Champion larger-scale lab improvement initiatives while completing day-to-day test requests.
  • Promote 5S principles for organizing and sustaining a clean, tidy workspace.
  • Properly use and maintain precision-calibrated tools, such as micrometers and calipers, to ensure accurate measurements.
  • Familiarize yourself with relevant ASTM, ISO, and IPC standards.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
  • 1+ years of materials testing experience in a laboratory environment.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Associate degree in an applied science field or 2+ years of professional experience in a lab environment.
  • Knowledge of safe work practices in environments involving furnaces, environmental chambers, saws, solvents, acids/bases, etc.
  • Understanding of basic materials science fundamentals.
  • Experience setting up and running tests and experiments.
  • Positive attitude and experience working on cross-functional teams.
  • Strong attention to detail when executing test instructions.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Atlassian JIRA, and work order systems.
  • Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills to collaborate closely with engineering teams.
  • Strong organizational skills to keep work areas tidy and manage workflow.
  • Creative approach to problem-solving, with a willingness to learn and try new things.
  • Experience using various hand tools and/or power tools.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Able to work off-shifts and available for overtime and weekends if needed. 
  • Able to wear appropriate PPE for lab and machine shop environment.
  • Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. unassisted.
  • Lifting, standing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position.

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