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Lab Operations Associate Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

Build and run the onboarding program for scientists, research associates, and engineers on lab logistics, safety, and operating norms * Partner with the operations and procurement teams on capital ...

Build and run the onboarding program for scientists, research associates, and engineers on lab logistics, safety, and operating norms * Partner with the operations and procurement teams on capital ...

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Lab Operations Associate information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$13

$32

$65

How much do lab operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations associate in San Jose, CA is $32.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.97 and $37.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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 most commonly searched types of Lab Operations jobs in San Jose, CA? The most popular types of Lab Operations jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Operations Associate jobs in San Jose, CA? For Lab Operations Associate jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Operations Associate jobs in San Jose, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Operations Associate jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Lab Operations Associate jobs? Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Lab Operations Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Operations Associate job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,469 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Laboratory Operations Specialist II / III

Bonneville Labs

South San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Bonneville Labs is a flexible coworking and traditional lab space operator and developer optimized for a community of Bio-Doers, emerging biotechnology companies, community partners, and life sciences market leaders. Bonneville Labs believes that research and development organizations can innovate faster when their mind-share is freed up from operations to focus on discovery and product development. Bonneville Labs seeks to improve our world and lives by eliminating operational hurdles and reducing the cost of research and development for our member companies and allowing them to go forward, faster toward world changing discoveries and businesses.
The Lab Operations Specialist - Associate Lead plays a pivotal role in managing and improving Bonneville Labs shared laboratory and office facilities. This role combines direct, hands-on lab operations with leadership in project execution, vendor management, and customer experience. The individual will be responsible for ensuring that our members have a safe, compliant, and reliable work environment, while also making improvements to processes and supporting the growth of Bonneville Labs' operational excellence.
The ideal candidate has a strong lab operations background, can self-manage with minimal supervision, and thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lab & Facilities Operations
  • Perform and oversee all duties associated with site operations, including those typically carried out by coordinators and technicians.
  • Proactively interact with member scientists to identify, document, and resolve issues with services, equipment, and supplies; use a ticketing system to track and communicate resolution progress.
  • Lead and coordinate with the Bonneville Labs (BVL) team and outside vendors for lab support services, equipment maintenance, and facilities management.
  • Maintain facility and equipment compliance, including:
    • Chemical inventory management, including receiving, tracking, and waste disposal.
    • Autoclaving dishes/media and providing sterilization services.
    • Cleaning and upkeep of common equipment areas (biosafety cabinets, incubators, shared instruments).
    • Performing routine inspections of safety showers, eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, and maintaining PPE/safety supply stations.
    • Monitoring and replenishing shared resources such as dry ice and liquid nitrogen.
    • Coordinating medical/biohazardous waste removal and transfer to accumulation areas.
  • Support member onboarding and offboarding processes; track progress using spreadsheets and operational systems.
  • Manage and deliver training for members proper use of shared equipment.
  • Assist with site improvements and cleaning to ensure Bonneville Labs remains an appealing, professional environment.
  • Travel between Bonneville Labs sites and member sites as needed (up to 50%).

Operational Excellence & Process Improvement
  • Contribute to the creation, updating, and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for site operations.
  • Suggest, lead, and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, safety, and the overall customer experience.
  • Track and maintain operational quality metrics, key performance indicators (KPIs), and apply lean methodologies for continuous improvement.
  • Help refine policies and procedures that will serve as templates for current and future Bonneville Labs sites.

Member & Customer Experience
  • Collaborate with the Bonneville Labs team to ensure outstanding experience for member companies.
  • Provide customer-facing support and service, maintaining responsiveness and professionalism at all times.
  • Act as a trusted partner to members, ensuring their operational needs are anticipated and met.
  • Participate and lead customer meetings to support ongoing services.

Other
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management to support the success of Bonneville Labs.

Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in life sciences or related field (required).
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in a laboratory operations, facilities management, or research setting.
  • Experience in a customer-facing role (3 years desirable).
  • Project coordination or project management experience strongly preferred.

Skills & Knowledge
  • Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented, and able to self-manage in a dynamic, fast-changing environment.
  • Proficiency in written and verbal communication in English.
  • Computer skills: proficiency with Microsoft Office/Google Suite; experience with ticketing/tracking systems or project management software desirable.
  • Ability to follow established protocols while also contributing to process improvements.
  • Strong customer service mindset and ability to collaborate across teams.

Certifications & Training
  • No formal certifications required, but training in EH&S, HazMat, and bloodborne pathogens is highly desirable.

Physical & Travel Requirements
  • Must possess a valid driver's license; able to travel between sites up to 50% of the time (including East Bay locations).
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.; role requires walking, standing, bending, reaching, and carrying light objects (<10 lbs.) regularly.
  • Must be able to perform all duties with the highest regard for safety, quality, and site protocols.