Lab Operations Specialist

Hlx Life Sciences; England; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A biotechnology company in London is seeking an entry-level Lab Operations Specialist to support day-to-day laboratory functions. The role requires 1–2 years of hands-on lab experience and offers a collaborative environment for professional growth. Responsibilities include managing laboratory supplies, assisting with procurement, and ensuring safety compliance. Ideal candidates are organised, proactive, and possess a degree in a life science discipline. This role is a fantastic starting point for a career in lab operations.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of laboratory experience in academia, biotech, or pharmaceutical environments.
• Familiarity with general laboratory operations and lab housekeeping.
• Experience working in BSL1 and/or BSL2 laboratory environments.

Responsibilities

• Support daily laboratory operations to ensure smooth workflows.
• Monitor, restock, and organise laboratory consumables.
• Maintain accurate inventory records for chemicals and materials.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Organised

Proactive

Collaborative mindset

Education

Degree in a life science discipline

Tools

Microsoft Office

Inventory systems

Job description

Lab Operations Specialist (Entry Level)

(also suitable for: Assistant Lab Manager / Lab Operations Assistant)

• Location: London, UK
• Employment Type: Permanent - Immediate Start
• Department: Discovery / Research Operations

Overview

An innovative biotechnology company is seeking a Lab Operations Specialist to support the day-to-day running of a modern molecular biology laboratory. This is an entry-level role, ideal for someone with 1–2 years of hands-on laboratory experience who is looking to grow their career in lab operations within a collaborative, fast-paced biotech environment.

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring laboratory efficiency, safety, and organisation, supporting both experimental scientists and the wider operations team.

it an excellent foundation for long-term growth in laboratory management or operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Support daily laboratory operations to ensure smooth workflows and compliance with SOPs
• Monitor, restock, and organise laboratory consumables, reagents, and PPE
• Assist with procurement processes, including raising orders, tracking deliveries, and liaising with suppliers
• Maintain accurate inventory records for chemicals, biological materials, and reagents
• Support routine equipment maintenance, basic troubleshooting, and coordination with external service providers
• Organise laboratory spaces, including benches, storage areas, fridges, and freezers
• Assist with lab inductions and onboarding for new staff
• Help maintain health and safety documentation (risk assessments, COSHH, lab manuals)
• Support implementation of laboratory safety procedures and auditsAssist with coordination of facilities issues and contractor visits
• Ensure essential safety equipment (spill kits, hand wash stations, signage) is maintained and accessible

Required Experience & Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent qualification) in a life science discipline
• 1–2 years of laboratory experience in academia, biotech, or pharmaceutical environments
• Familiarity with general laboratory operations and lab housekeeping
• Experience working in BSL1 and/or BSL2 laboratory environments
• Basic understanding of laboratory health and safety requirements
• Comfortable using standard software tools (e.g. Microsoft Office, inventory systems)
• Exposure to molecular biology and/or cell culture laboratories
• Experience supporting inventory systems or lab operations processes
• Awareness of COSHH, risk assessments, or basic HSE practices

Personal Attributes

• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Reliable, proactive, and eager to learn
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset
• Able to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment
• Positive, hands-on attitude with a willingness to support others
• Motivated to improve laboratory processes and operational efficiency