Lab Operations Specialist

Lab Operations Specialist

Multiple Locations and Shifts Available

Cambridge, MA - Tuesday - Saturday - 8am - 4:30pm

Burlington, MA - Sunday - Thursday - 8am - 4:30pm

Job Description

The Lab Operations Specialist supports end-to-end sample management and laboratory operations across multiple departments in a regulated environment. This role follows SOPs and GMP procedures, ensures accurate documentation in ERP and quality systems, and assists with biopsy accessioning and cleanroom activities to maintain high standards of quality and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Support sample management activities across several laboratory and operational departments in alignment with SOPs and GMP procedures.
• Move and coordinate materials across all departments to ensure timely and accurate processing of samples and supplies.
• Ensure all samples are accurately documented in ERP and quality systems, including maintaining detailed records in Excel.
• Perform biopsy accessioning activities for all relevant processes, ensuring correct identification, labeling, and tracking of samples.
• Assist with gowning procedures and related activities in the cleanroom to maintain a controlled and compliant environment.
• Support media preparation and inventory management to ensure laboratory materials are adequately stocked and organized.
• Carry out data entry and Excel data entry tasks with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Follow cGMP, GMP, SOP, and other operational guidelines to maintain compliance with regulatory and quality standards.
• Participate in general laboratory operations, including receiving and accessioning samples, and maintaining orderly workspaces.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support efficient lab operations and continuous improvement of sample management processes.

Essential Skills

• 2–4 years of experience in laboratory operations, sample management, or a closely related field.
• Associate degree in a relevant discipline.
• Hands-on experience with sample management, including receiving, tracking, and accessioning samples.
• Proficiency in Excel, including accurate data entry and basic data organization.
• Experience with media preparation and inventory management in a laboratory setting.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems and quality systems for documenting and tracking samples and materials.
• Demonstrated ability to follow SOPs, GMP, and cGMP procedures in a regulated environment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and documentation.
• Ability to work effectively across multiple departments and support various operational workflows.
• Comfort with laboratory operations, including handling biological samples and working in cleanroom environments.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with laboratory accessioning and receiving processes.
• Familiarity with general laboratory operations and sample management best practices.
• Ability to learn and apply evolving GMP requirements and operational procedures.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Interest in long-term growth opportunities, including potential promotion and expanded responsibilities.
• Motivation to work in a quality-focused environment with structured procedures and documentation.

Work Environment

The role follows a consistent schedule from Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., providing stable working hours with weekend coverage. The position is based in a laboratory environment that includes cleanroom operations, where proper gowning procedures are required to maintain controlled conditions. You will work across various departments, gaining exposure to GMP practices, ERP and quality systems, and media preparation and inventory processes. The environment emphasizes regulatory compliance, accurate documentation, and collaboration. As the role progresses, there is potential for promotion and transition to a full-time position with access to comprehensive benefits, restricted stock units, and bonuses, reflecting a culture that values development, performance, and long-term career growth.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cambridge, MA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $24.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cambridge, MA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 16, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.