1

Lab Operations Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

The Central Lab Assistant is responsible for providing technical and administrative support for laboratory operations in our Central Lab. They assist with quality control by ensuring correct specimen ...

Innovation Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$20.19 - $30.11/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Summary The Innovation Lab Assistant supports the daily operations, instructional activities, and overall experience of the Sports Product Management (SPM) Innovation Lab. Reporting to the ...

New

Lab Engineering Technician

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Your expertise will drive innovation, maintain operational excellence, and ensure quality and efficiency in our testing and development processes. By maintaining customized equipment, managing lab ...

Your expertise will drive innovation, maintain operational excellence, and ensure quality and efficiency in our testing and development processes. By maintaining customized equipment, managing lab ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Operations information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do lab operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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?

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 is 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 job categories do people searching Lab Operations jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Operations jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Lab Operations job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,694 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Division Manager

Socotec

Portland, OR

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Company Description

About SOCOTEC:

SOCOTEC is a provider of niche consulting services within the architecture, engineering and construction industries focusing on high-performance buildings and specialty structures. Through an integrated, holistic approach, our professionals provide solutions for building envelope, energy efficiency, sustainability, code advisory and construction advisory projects. 

SOCOTEC offers competitive salary and benefits, mentorship, training, and social activities.

SOCOTEC is proud to announce that it has been officially certified as a Great Place to Work by the renowned global authority on workplace culture, Great Place to Work®.

Job Description

We are hiring an experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead a new office in Portland, Oregon as General Manager and Principal-in-Charge. This role combines technical leadership, business development, and team management to drive operational and financial success.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee division operations, budgets, and workload planning
  • Serve as Principal-in-Charge on major projects, providing technical oversight and quality review
  • Mentor and guide project managers and technical staff
  • Manage client relationships, contracts, and project deliverables
  • Track KPIs, financial performance, and implement corrective actions as needed
  • Support business development and strategic growth initiatives
  • Manage construction materials testing field and lab operations during the initial growth stage
Qualifications
  • B.S. or M.S. in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering.
  • 10+ years of experience managing engineering projects and teams.
  • 5+ years experience in the construction materials testing (CMT) industry
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency in geotechnical design software.
  • Ability to visit field sites as needed; valid driver’s license required.

Additional Information

Salary range: $160,000-200,000

Your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

For more information, please visit www.socotec.us

Job Type: Full-Time; in-office

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.