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Lab Operations Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Lab Operations Manager

New York, NY ยท On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the Lab Operations Manager provides comprehensive operational, financial, and administrative support for a dynamic quantum physics research laboratory. The ...

Lab Technician

New York, NY ยท On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

In this role, you'll collaborate closely with our Electrical, Mechanical, Firmware, and Quality engineers to ensure efficient lab operations, prototype testing, and rapid iteration in a fast-paced ...

Test Lab Operations * Oversee daily lab housekeeping and ensure a clean, safe, and organized environment. * Serve as the subject matter expert for all existing and new lab equipment. * Manage ...

Laboratory Operations Specialist

New York, NY ยท On-site

$87K - $120K/yr

Our self-driving lab platform combines AI with autonomous robotics to run experiments, analyze ... The Role We are looking for a hands-on Laboratory Operations Specialist to help keep our self ...

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Lab Operations information

See New York salary details

$10

$27

$49

How much do lab operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations in New York is $27.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Lab Operations, you need a solid background in laboratory techniques, quality control, and safety protocols, typically supported by a degree in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), instrumentation calibration, and regulatory standards like GLP or ISO is essential. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure smooth workflow and collaboration within the lab. These competencies are crucial for maintaining accurate results, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab functioning.

What is the difference between Lab Operations vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab OperationsLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a science or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentInvolves overseeing lab workflows, managing staff, and ensuring complianceHands-on testing, sample preparation, and data recording in laboratory settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research labs, clinical labs, and industrial settings for management rolesCommon in clinical, medical, and industrial laboratories for technical tasks

Lab Operations professionals focus on managing laboratory workflows, staff, and compliance, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Laboratory Technicians perform hands-on testing and sample analysis, typically with an associate degree or certification. While both roles are essential in laboratory settings, Lab Operations roles are more managerial and oversight-oriented, whereas Laboratory Technicians are more technical and operational.

What are Lab Operations?

Lab Operations refers to the processes, systems, and people responsible for ensuring that a laboratory runs smoothly and efficiently. This includes managing equipment, supplies, safety protocols, scheduling, and regulatory compliance. Those working in lab operations may coordinate experiments, maintain instruments, oversee inventory, and support researchers or scientists. The goal is to create a safe and organized environment that enables scientific work to be carried out effectively and in compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced in lab operations roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in lab operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with safety regulations, managing inventory and equipment calibration, and ensuring smooth workflow coordination among team members. Staying organized and implementing standardized protocols can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, strong communication skills and regular training support efficient collaboration between scientists, technicians, and support staff, which is crucial for minimizing errors and maintaining a productive lab environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Operations jobs in New York? The most popular types of Lab Operations jobs in New York are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Operations jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Operations jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Lab Operations jobs? Cities in New York with the most Lab Operations job openings:
Lab Operations Manager

Lab Operations Manager

Columbia University

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

  • Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
  • Bargaining Unit:
  • Regular/Temporary: Temporary
  • End Date if Temporary: 1 year from hire date.
  • Hours Per Week: 35
  • Standard Work Schedule:
  • Building:
  • Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Position Summary
The Will Lab , within the Department of Physics at Columbia University, investigates quantum systems of ultracold atoms and molecules at temperatures near absolute zero, where matter is governed by the laws of quantum mechanics. Using precision tools from atomic physics, the lab studies many-body quantum systems, quantum simulation, and quantum optics, contributing to foundational discoveries in physics and advancing emerging quantum technologies.
Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the Lab Operations Manager provides comprehensive operational, financial, and administrative support for a dynamic quantum physics research laboratory. The role oversees research administration, grant and budget management, laboratory operations, purchasing, travel coordination, event planning, and stakeholder support while serving as a key liaison among the PI, students, postdoctoral researchers, sponsoring agencies, and university administrative offices.
This is a temporary one-year position with the possibility of extension contingent upon funding availability.
Responsibilities
Research Administration & Grant Management
  • Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in the management of research administration activities, including proposal development, submission, and post-award account management.
  • Coordinate proposal budget development and preparation; review proposals for compliance with sponsor requirements; and submit applications to sponsoring agencies and partners, often within tight deadlines.
  • Track proposal timelines and requirements across multiple funding agencies (e.g., National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, Department of Energy).
  • Collaborate closely with Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA) and Sponsored Projects Finance (SPF), as needed.
  • Monitor budgets and project expenditures for 10+ grants in collaboration with the Director of Academic Administration & Finance.
  • Support the coordination and administration of center grants, including organizing and facilitating renewal processes.

Financial Administration & Compliance
  • Track laboratory expenditures across multiple funding sources and provide the PI with regular budget updates.
  • Process salary allocations on grants and coordinate funding allocations.
  • Compile and provide the required information for the preparation of government and industry research grant budgets.
  • Independently prepare and compile information for annual and periodic performance reports for government grants.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable sponsor policies and regulations; support the PI in preparing and submitting required reports to sponsoring agencies.

Stakeholder Coordination & Administrative Support
  • Provide administrative support for the PI's correspondence and maintain strong relationships with internal and external collaborators.
  • Serve as the primary administrative point of contact for students, staff, and prospective students.
  • Coordinate scheduling and logistics for lab visitors, including appointment approvals, drafting invitation letters, arranging safety training with Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S), and facilitating lab and building access.
  • Assistwith the onboarding processes for students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scholars.

Operations & Purchasing
  • Coordinate complex domestic and international travel arrangements for the PI (~20 trips/year) and lab members.
  • Review and process travel and business expense reimbursements in Concur, ensuring timely and accurate submission.
  • Manage laboratory inventory and assist lab members with submitting and tracking purchase orders in coordination with the departmental finance office.
  • Manage the completion and submission of tariff exemption and payment forms.

Communications & Lab Operations
  • Maintain and update the lab website, including research updates, publications, and news items.
  • Coordinate social media related to lab activities and achievements.
  • Assist in organizing on-campus workshops, conferences, and scientific events, including logistics, communications, and budgeting.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline.
  • Two years of experience in a research environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with research grant administration and proposal submission processes.
  • Familiarity with university financial and administrative systems (e.g., Concur).
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities and deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.