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Lab Operations Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician IV

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$29 - $45/hr

Overview We are seeking a Senior Lab Operations professional to design, maintain, and continuously improve product development lab environments. This role owns lab setup and upkeep, coordinates ...

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Lab Operations information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do lab operations jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations in Portland, OR is $26.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $29.57 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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Lab Operations jobs in Portland, OR? For Lab Operations jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Managing Director, Laboratory Operations

Managing Director, Laboratory Operations

Icon plc

Portland, OR

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Managing Director, Speciality Lab Operations - Portland, Oregon - Onsite

ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to patients faster.


As a values-driven organisation, integrity, collaboration, agility, and inclusion are at the heart of how we work and interact with each other, customers, patients and suppliers.


ICON Specialty Labs partners with biopharma clients to design, verify and validate clinical trial assays (CTA) for patient selection, therapeutic efficacy, and monitoring. We are at the forefront of precision medicine diagnostic technology and ensure reliable and accurate results for pivotal clinical end points.

ICON Specialty Lab's distinction is premised on the fact that diagnostic strategies and challenges for each therapeutic program are unique and often change course with limited notice. The ideal diagnostic partner needs to excel in technical, clinical, quality, regulatory and commercial competencies while collaboratively planning and navigating the translational, clinical, and commercial phases of the therapeutic program.


The Managing Director, Laboratory Operations role will be responsible for the overall success, quality and profitability of the ICON Lab in Portland, Oregon. They will oversee and manage all aspects across highcomplexity testing in our Specialty Laboratory Operations (in collaboration with the Medical Director) including but not limited to: Sample Receipt & Processing, Clinical Trial Testing & Reporting, Custom Method Development, Reagent Production, Project Management, Record Retention, Regulatory Compliance (CLIA, CAP, NY & other states, FDA, EMA, etc.), Inventory Management and Employee Safety. They will have direct P&L responsibilities while managing a team of Directors and Managers. This role drives strategic growth, operational excellence, and innovation while ensuring compliant, highquality delivery of specialty laboratory services supporting global clinical trials.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership for global Specialty Laboratory Operations.

  • Ensure compliance with CAP, CLIA, NYS, and applicable global regulatory requirements.

  • Own operational performance metrics, including quality, turnaround time, productivity, and cost efficiency.

  • Maintain financial accountability, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment planning.

  • Lead and develop senior laboratory leadership teams; drive talent development and succession planning.

  • Partner crossfunctionally with Medical, Quality, Commercial, IT/LIMS, and Global Lab Operations.

  • Sponsor automation, digital, and process improvement initiatives to support scalability and innovation.

Position Requirements:

  • 10 years progressive experience including both CAP/ CLIA accredited and GLP Lab environments, including at least 5 years experience in these environments managing P&L

  • Proven ability to effectively communicate with external clients, especially in support of increasing revenue attainment

  • BS or higher Degree in Medical or Life Sciences (clinical, biological, chemical, or laboratory science discipline) required; MBA preferred

  • Proven ability to successfully lead, motivate and influence employees positioned at all organizational levels including change leadership

  • Strong interpersonal, analytical and communication skills

  • Able to be in the Portland, Oregon office 5 days a week

#LI-LE1

#LI-Onsite


Employment with ICON is contingent upon having the legal right to work in the country where the role is based.


Rewards & Benefits

ICON offers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and career development.


Benefits may include:

  • Competitive base salary and performance related incentives
  • Health and wellbeing programmes including medical, dental, and vision coverage where applicable
  • Retirement and pension plans
  • Life assurance and disability coverage
  • Employee assistance programmes and wellbeing resources
  • Learning and development opportunities through structured training and career pathways

Benefits may vary depending on role and location.


Visit our careers site to read more about the benefits ICON offers.


Inclusion and Accessibility

ICON is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.


If you require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know or submit a requesthere.

Are you a current ICON Employee? Please click here to apply