Laboratory Operations Manager

JR United Kingdom; Exeter; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the biotech sector is seeking a Lab Operations Manager to support its cutting-edge immunotherapy research lab. This critical role involves ensuring safe and compliant lab operations, managing logistics, and overseeing health and safety protocols. Ideal candidates will have a strong biotech background, exceptional organizational skills, and a proactive approach to lab management. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of life-saving therapies in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a biotech, immunotherapy, or life sciences lab environment.
• Understanding of biosafety protocols and UK lab legislation.
• NEBOSH, IOSH, or equivalent safety certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee lab health and safety operations and maintain compliance.
• Lead lab logistics including inventory and equipment management.
• Draft and maintain SOPs and lab manuals.

Skills

Health and Safety Management

Lab Management

Compliance Knowledge

Inventory Management

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

BSc in Life Science or related field

Tools

LIMS

ELNs

Inventory Software

Job description

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? Lab Operations Manager – Cell Therapy background.

Location: Oxford, UK

? The Opportunity

We’re seeking a proactive Lab Operations Manager to support a cutting-edge immunotherapy research lab working at the forefront of cell-based treatments. This is a hands-on, high-impact role responsible for ensuring the smooth, safe, and compliant running of laboratory operations in a fast-paced biotech setting.

You’ll be the backbone of our lab—overseeing equipment, consumables, safety practices, and compliance—freeing our scientists to focus on driving forward potentially life-changing therapies.

? Key Responsibilities

Health & Safety

• Act as the primary contact for lab health and safety operations.
• Maintain up-to-date risk assessments, COSHH records, and biosafety documentation.

Lab Operations

• Lead day-to-day lab logistics: inventory, consumables, and maintenance.
• Oversee equipment calibration, servicing, and troubleshooting.
• Manage waste disposal (biological, chemical, clinical) in line with regulations.
• Liaise with external suppliers, service engineers, and contractors.
• Coordinate access for maintenance, installation, and emergency works.

Documentation & Compliance

• Draft and maintain SOPs, lab manuals, and safety documentation.
• Support audit readiness and uphold best practices aligned with GMP/GxP standards.

About You

• Previous experience in a biotech, immunotherapy, or life sciences lab environment.
• Strong understanding of biosafety protocols and UK lab legislation.
• Confident managing equipment, inventory, and contractor relationships.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Able to thrive in a collaborative, fast-moving, and regulated setting.

? Preferred Qualifications

• BSc (or equivalent experience) in a life science or related field.
• Familiarity with GMP/GxP practices in a lab setting.
• NEBOSH, IOSH, or equivalent safety certification (preferred).
• Experience with digital lab systems (LIMS, ELNs, inventory software).

? Why This Role Matters

This is not just an operations job—it’s a chance to be part of a team tackling some of the most complex challenges in modern medicine. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, safeguard scientific integrity, and help drive progress in immunotherapy, we want to hear from you.