1

Lab Operations Associate Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Work closely with Validations and Stability Manager, Lab Operations, R&D scientific teams (Emperor ... Associate's Degree in a relevant technical discipline with 5+ years of GMP pharmaceutical or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Operations Associate information

See Durham, NC salary details

$10

$25

$51

How much do lab operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations associate in Durham, NC is $25.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $29.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the duties of lab operations?

Lab operations involve managing daily laboratory activities, including preparing and maintaining equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and supporting sample handling and data recording. Lab Operations Associates often coordinate workflows, monitor inventory, and assist with compliance to quality standards, utilizing tools like laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

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 requires attention to detail and knowledge of laboratory 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 projects, managing teams, and ensuring compliance with regulations, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and location.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Operations jobs in Durham, NC? The most popular types of Lab Operations jobs in Durham, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Operations Associate jobs in Durham, NC? For Lab Operations Associate jobs in Durham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Operations Associate jobs in Durham, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Operations Associate jobs in Durham, NC are:
What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Lab Operations Associate jobs? Cities near Durham, NC with the most Lab Operations Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Operations Associate job openings in Durham, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,749 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Post-Doc Research Associate - Dr. Ainslie's lab

Post-Doc Research Associate - Dr. Ainslie's lab

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Vision, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 538 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Information
Posting Details
Department
SOP-DPMP - 452400
Posting Open Date
04/27/2026
Application Deadline
Open Until Filled
Yes
Position Type
Postdoctoral Scholar
Position Title
Post-Doc Research Associate - Dr. Ainslie's lab
Vacancy ID
PDS004843
Full-time/Part-time
Full-Time Temporary
Hours per week
40
FTE
1
Work Location
Chapel Hill, NC
Position Location
North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
Dependent on experience and qualification.
Proposed Start Date
06/01/2026
Estimated Duration of Appointment
12 Months
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.
Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy (www.pharmacy.unc.edu) is one of six health science schools (Pharmacy, Nursing, Dentistry, Social Work, Public Health, Medicine) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is one of the oldest health science academic programs at Chapel Hill. The School teaches approximately 600 PharmD students and 145 graduate students. The School has built a reputation for its continued pursuit of excellence, rigorous education and training programs, cutting-edge multidisciplinary research, progressive pharmacy practices, efficient business operations, and its outstanding faculty, staff, and students. The School was named the number one School of Pharmacy in the U.S. by the U.S. News and World Report. The School has experienced unprecedented growth and success and continues to strategically position itself for sustained impact, as articulated in the School's Strategic Plan (https://pharmacy.unc.edu/about/oe/strategic-plan/).
Our Vision is to be the global leader in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences. Our Mission is to prepare leaders and innovators to solve the world's most pressing health care challenges. We are Advancing Medicine for Life through innovation and collaboration in pharmacy practice, education, research, and public service.
Position Summary
This is a Post-Doctoral Research Associate position in the field of Immunoengineering. The Postdoctoral researcher will collaborate with a team on formulation development for treatment of type 1 diabetes, mentor and oversee graduate students involved in the work, and actively contribute to collaborative efforts across the lab
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
PhD
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Previous work with cells and/or animal models of immune responses
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Mammalian cell culture, ELISAs, isolation of murine BMDCs, autoimmune models, animal models, and ELISPOT assays.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
N/A
Special Instructions
Applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and names and complete contact information of three professional references, including email addresses and phone numbers. For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Quick Link
https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/316821
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title
Alekya Padmanabhuni, HR Business Partner
Department Contact Telephone or Email
alekya@email.unc.edu
Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.
Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

What University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill logo

About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789