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Lab Operations Associate Jobs in Scituate, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Operations Associate information

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$11

$27

$55

How much do lab operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations associate in Scituate, MA is $27.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 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 cities near Scituate, MA are hiring for Lab Operations Associate jobs?

Cities near Scituate, MA with the most Lab Operations Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Operations Associate job openings in Scituate, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,786 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist, Characterization

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Your Impact at LILA

Lila Sciences is seeking a Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist, Characterization to join the Materials Science team within the Autonomous Science Platform. This role focuses on operating, maintaining, and improving characterization workflows that support active materials research campaigns.

The person in this role will run and troubleshoot core characterization methods, including SEM, optical microscopy, and XRD, while helping bring new instruments and protocols into reliable use. They will partner with scientists, engineers, and platform teams to deliver high-quality measurements, document methods, and keep characterization workflows moving efficiently.

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys careful experimental work, dependable lab operations, and practical method development. The ideal candidate brings strong attention to detail, comfort working with scientific equipment, and interest in building repeatable workflows that support fast, high-quality research.

What You'll Be Building

  • Operate SEM, optical microscopy, XRD, and related characterization workflows.
  • Prepare samples and measurement plans for routine characterization requests.
  • Maintain instrument readiness through checks, calibration, documentation, and troubleshooting.
  • Develop and refine protocols for new tools, methods, and sample types.
  • Deliver high-quality measurement data with clear records and traceable methods.
  • Identify workflow bottlenecks and improve throughput, reliability, and data quality.
  • Partner with Materials Science, platform, and operations teams on campaign needs.

What You'll Need to Succeed

  • B.S. or M.S. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or a related field.
  • 2 to 5 years of hands-on laboratory experience in materials characterization or adjacent workflows.
  • Experience operating SEM, optical microscopy, XRD, or other common materials characterization tools.
  • Strong sample preparation, measurement planning, and experimental documentation skills.
  • Ability to troubleshoot instruments, workflows, and data-quality issues.
  • Comfort following SOPs while improving protocols as methods mature.
  • Strong communication skills for coordinating with scientists, engineers, and operations teams.

Bonus Points For

  • Familiarity with materials sample preparation for microscopy or diffraction workflows.
  • Experience onboarding new lab equipment, methods, or characterization protocols.
  • Comfort working in high-throughput or service-oriented lab environments.
  • Basic data analysis, visualization, or scripting experience for measurement workflows.