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Lab Operations Associate Jobs in Merrillville, IN

The Clinical Associate is a vital member of our healthcare team, performing a wide range of ... Oversee laboratory operations, including specimen collection, lab orders, and processing.

Clinical Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

The Clinical Associate is a vital member of our healthcare team, performing a wide range of ... Oversee laboratory operations, including specimen collection, lab orders, and processing.

... lab testing, and AI agents to deliver insurance-covered care across all 50 states. Founded four ... You've owned the operational execution of prospective clinical research -- You know what it takes ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Operations Associate information

See Merrillville, IN salary details

$11

$25

$52

How much do lab operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations associate in Merrillville, IN is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab operations associate?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab operations associate?

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Lab Operations Associate jobs in Merrillville, IN?

For Lab Operations Associate jobs in Merrillville, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Operations Associate jobs in Merrillville, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Operations Associate jobs in Merrillville, IN are:

Infographic showing various Lab Operations Associate job openings in Merrillville, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,548 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

OSRF Director of Research Operations

Chicago, IL • On-site

The University of Chicago
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Department
BSD ARC-SRF - Animal Resource Center & Office of Shared Research Facilities
About the Department
The Office of Shared Research Facilities (OSRF) manages Biological Sciences Division Core Facilities by providing operational, financial, administrative, IT, and communication support. OSRF works closely with The University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Research Resources Oversight Committee to establish a policy framework for the operation of core facilities, reviewing and prioritizing acquisition of major scientific equipment, and providing scientific expertise and strategic planning for institutional research resources.
Job Summary
The OSRF Director of Research Operations will provide leadership and strategic oversight for the day-to-day operations of OSRF and its 20+ research core facilities. This role serves as the operational contact for faculty, core directors, and internal stakeholders, ensuring efficient facility management and high-quality research support. The individual will also support the Associate Dean for Research Resources' role within the University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, leading metrics collection and core planning and assessments
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the central operational contact for all core facilities, managing cross-facility issues and projects.
  • Monitor rates, turnaround times, faculty satisfaction, revenue and cost structure. Work with core directors on operational challenges, resource allocation, equipment needs, and capacity planning.
  • Lead projects such as new facility development, master planning, automation and AI adoption, space optimization, and technology implementation.
  • Support external engagement efforts, including business development for increased external revenue, partnership development, and industry outreach.
  • Develop routine summary reports on core utilizations, gap analysis, and other reports needed.
  • Lead the collection and analysis of performance metrics across all Cancer Center cores, creating reports and dashboards for leadership and stakeholder review.
  • Serve as primary liaison between Cancer Center administration and core facilities to ensure alignment on funding, policies, and research support priorities.
  • Oversee IT and IS infrastructure and support for core facilities.
  • Coordinate with IT and software vendors on core facility technology needs, system upgrades, troubleshooting, and user support.
  • Develop and maintain web presence for core facilities, including website updates, online portals, and digital communications.
  • Work with OSRF Finance to monitor core facility budgets, revenue, and cost structure.
  • Support rate-setting, pricing strategy, and contract negotiations with external partners and service providers.
  • Lead cost savings initiatives within cores.
  • Support hiring and professional development activities for OSRF staff in coordination with HR, including compensation review and performance management support.
  • Plans and develops program objectives and/or content. Researches and identifies trends and needs and establishes program directions accordingly.
  • Serves as a key resource for program information. Resolves problems or questions referred by program staff, University administrators, or other contingencies.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
---
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific field, research administration, business, engineering, or related field, advanced degree in a scientific field.

Experience:
  • 5+ years of experience in research administration, project management or operations management, experience in a large academic medical center or research-intensive university.
  • Familiarity with core facility operations, facility planning and design, or vivarium management.
  • Experience with business development, external partnerships, or revenue generation in an academic research environment.
  • Experience with IT infrastructure, software implementations, or technical systems in research environments.

Preferred Competencies
  • Strategic thinking.
  • Ability to manage multiple complex projects.
  • Clear, professional communicator.
  • Ability to work across organizations and build relationships.
  • Comfortable working with technology systems and learning new software.
  • Ability to understand budgets, analyze financial data.
  • Ability to mentor and train staff.

Working Conditions
  • Office and Lab Environment.

Application Documents
  • Resume (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Administration & Management
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
Yes
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$120,000.00 - $170,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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