Assistant Lab Manager

MSALABS; Fairbanks (AK); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Relocation assistance

401(k) with company match

Comprehensive health benefits

Professional development

Job summary

MSALABS in Fairbanks, Alaska is seeking a full-time Assistant Lab Manager to lead daily operations, coordinate client jobs in LIMS, and ensure testing is accurate, timely, and compliant with ISO 17025.

Reporting to the Laboratory Manager, you will train staff, optimize workflows, manage equipment and inventory, and contribute to method development while promoting safety and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in a relevant science field.
• Minimum 3 years laboratory experience.
• Supervisory or management experience.

Responsibilities

• Operational Management of daily lab activities.
• Oversee client jobs in LIMS and ensure on-time testing.
• Coordinate maintenance/repair of laboratory equipment.
• Manage inventory and procurement of consumables.
• Enforce quality control procedures and SOP adherence.
• Maintain compliance with ISO 17025 and SOP documentation.
• Foster safety, teamwork, and regulatory compliance.
• Provide technical support for testing activities and method development.
• Support staff training and development; assist scheduling and performance management.
• Identify and implement process improvements and cost-saving opportunities.

Skills

LIMS proficiency

ISO 17025 knowledge

SOP development

Quality control

Leadership

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry/Geochemistry/Earth Sciences/Environmental Science/Materials Science or related

Tools

LIMS

MS Office

Job description

• Lead laboratory operations, and play a key role in delivering quality results in a dynamic scientific environment
• Enjoy a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, relocation assistance, comprehensive health benefits, and a 401(k) plan with company match
• Advance your leadership career with ongoing professional development, and the opportunity to help shape the future of a growing laboratory operation

About MSALABS

MSALABS is a global leader in geochemical laboratory services, supporting exploration and mining companies with the accurate, timely data they need to make critical project decisions. With a rapidly expanding network of laboratories located across key mining regions worldwide, we are committed to delivering industry-leading turnaround times while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and technical excellence.

Driven by innovation, we continually invest in advanced analytical technologies and state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, enabling faster, safer, and more accurate results for our clients. Our expertise, global reach, and commitment to continuous improvement have made us a trusted partner to mining and exploration companies across the globe.

At MSALABS, our people are at the heart of our success. We foster a collaborative, customer-focused culture where talented professionals are empowered to grow, contribute innovative ideas, and make a meaningful impact on both our operations and the industries we serve. If you're looking to join a forward-thinking organization at the forefront of laboratory innovation, we'd love to hear from you.

For more information, please visit our website: msalabs.com/

About Fairbanks, Alaska

Life in Fairbanks, Alaska, is shaped by dramatic seasons, wide-open wilderness, and a strong sense of community. Summers bring long, sun-filled days perfect for hiking, fishing, camping, and exploring Alaska’s Interior, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy playground for skiing, snowmachining, dog sledding, and watching the northern lights. Fairbanks offers a small-city feel with local restaurants, cultural events, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and easy access to some of the most spectacular scenery in the state. It’s a place where adventure is never far away and life moves to a distinctly Alaskan rhythm.

For more information, please visit: explorefairbanks.com/

About the Opportunity

MSALABS is looking for a full-time Assistant Lab Manager based in Fairbanks, Alaska. Regular hours of work is Monday-Friday, 8AM-4:30PM, with open availability Monday-Sunday required for on-call, on an as-needed basis. Occasional travel may be required for training purposes.

Reporting to the Laboratory Manager, the Assistant Laboratory Manager plays a key role in supporting daily laboratory operations, ensuring testing activities are completed efficiently, safely, and in accordance with quality standards. This position is accountable for supporting laboratory staff, maintaining operational workflows, upholding compliance requirements, and contributing to the delivery of accurate and timely test results.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Operational Management
• Assisting with the management of client jobs within the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Overseeing daily laboratory workflows to ensure testing activities are completed efficiently and on schedule
• Coordinating the maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment to minimize downtime
• Supporting inventory management activities, including tracking consumables and procurement requirements
• Quality Assurance
• Enforcing quality control procedures and ensuring compliance with laboratory standards
• Maintaining adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality documentation requirements
• Promoting a strong culture of safety, teamwork, and regulatory compliance
• Technical Support
• Providing technical support for complex testing activities and troubleshooting issues
• Contributing to laboratory method development
• Staff Management
• Assisting with the training and development of laboratory personnel on methods, procedures, and protocols
• Supporting staff scheduling, performance management, and workforce planning activities
• Identifying and implementing process improvements and cost‑saving opportunities while maintaining quality standards
• Contributing to validation, and continuous improvement initiatives

About You

To qualify, you will need a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Geochemistry, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Materials Science or related disciplines. A minimum of 3 years' laboratory experience will be essential, along with some supervisory or management experience.

Additionally, the following skills and background will be required:

• Experience within a geochemical or mining laboratory environment
• Knowledge of ISO 17025 quality systems, internal auditing, and method validation
• Proficiency with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Experience developing, implementing, and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Strong understanding of laboratory quality control and compliance requirements
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to travel internationally for training opportunities

As our ideal candidate, you will possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, excellent organizational abilities, and a high level of attention to detail. You will be capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment while maintaining a commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement. You will also be a collaborative leader who fosters teamwork, supports staff development, and leads by example.

This is an excellent opportunity for a technically capable laboratory professional who is ready to take the next step in their leadership career. The successful candidate will be a proactive problem‑solver who thrives in a hands‑on environment and is passionate about delivering high‑quality results while helping drive operational excellence across the laboratory.

About the Benefits

Compensation based on skills and experience, is a competitive annual salary, and a host of excellent benefits including:

• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Relocation assistance
• Comprehensive extended health, dental and vision benefits for employees and eligible family members
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with a 5% company match
• Company-supported professional development and training opportunities
• Company-paid travel for approved training and development programs
• Opportunities for career growth within a supportive and collaborative laboratory environment