Bioengineering Lab Operations Lead

Florida Gulf Coast University; United States; On-site; Full time

Job description

Job Summary

The Lab Coordinator I/II oversees and coordinates the daily operations, maintenance, and technical support of bioengineering laboratory facilities, equipment, instrumentation, and technologies. The position ensures safe, efficient, and effective laboratory support for instructional and research activities by coordinating resources, supplies, safety procedures, and technical operations. This position supports laboratory system design, development, operation, and maintenance while providing technical guidance to faculty, staff, and students in accordance with institutional policies and applicable safety guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate day‑to‑day operations of assigned laboratories.
• Provide technical leadership to Laboratory Assistants, Laboratory Technicians, and student employees.
• Collaborate with faculty members to design and develop lab instruction and teaching materials.
• Assist faculty in classroom settings as assigned.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory facilities for teaching instruction.
• Provide guidance in learning and functional operation of procedures and equipment.
• Conduct audits of safety protocols and emergency response plans.
• Ensure chemicals are stored correctly according to safety codes, regulations, and best practices.
• Ensure equipment operates safely according to manufacturer specifications.
• Provide training and ensure compliance with proper usage of laboratory equipment and safe laboratory practices, including safe handling and disposal of biohazardous materials.
• Maintain and inspect equipment to ensure optimum calibration and condition.
• Maintain supplies for laboratory courses and replenish stocks of solvents, reagents, solutions, and other necessary items.
• Monitor department budgets including expenditures from supplies and equipment accounts.
• Research purchase options, prepare purchase requisitions, and reconcile invoices.
• Assist in the development of the annual operating budget.
• Make recommendations for the purchase of new equipment and modifications to or replacement of current equipment.
• Assist in the development of laboratory standard operating procedures, evaluate work processes, contribute to continuous improvement models, and create short and long‑term plans.
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned.

Qualifications for Lab Coordinator I

• Either four years of directly related full‑time experience or a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, or another closely related field.
• Relevant experience related to the job functions.
• Experience operating a personal computer and proficiency with Microsoft Office (Work, Excel, and Outlook).
• Combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications considered.

Qualifications for Lab Coordinator II

• Either six years of directly related full‑time experience or a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, or another closely related field.
• At least two years of full‑time experience directly related to the job functions in addition to the degree.
• Relevant experience related to the job functions.
• Experience operating a personal computer and proficiency with Microsoft Office (Work, Excel, and Outlook).
• Combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications considered.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proven ability to think strategically and approach challenges with creativity.
• Demonstrated track record of reliability, meeting goals, and holding oneself accountable.
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working effectively across teams.
• Knowledge of the use and maintenance of laboratory facilities and/or equipment.
• Knowledge of laboratory and experimental protocols and procedures.
• Knowledge of inventory control principles and methods.
• Knowledge of applicable safety standards, guidelines, and protocols.
• Knowledge of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, USEPA Methods, NIST standards, or ASTM standards.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize and complete simultaneous projects within deadlines.
• Ability to maintain records and perform advanced mathematical calculations.
• Ability to work successfully as both a team member and independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to interact professionally with staff, faculty, students, and the community in a service‑oriented environment.
• Ability to collaborate with classroom instructors to ensure delivery of a quality laboratory experience.
• Ability to deliver effective presentations to large and small audiences.
• Ability to prepare and set up appropriate laboratory materials and equipment for various laboratory activities.
• Ability to utilize, calibrate, configure and/or troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Ability to work an irregular schedule as needed, including evenings and weekends.

Institutional Values & Behavioral Expectations

• Seek out new approaches to improve outcomes; remain open for feedback and new ideas.
• Lead with integrity; consistently produce high‑quality work; persevere to overcome obstacles to meet deadlines and achieve deliverables.
• Share information and insights thoughtfully; build partnerships across departments; communicate respectfully; support colleagues to achieve common goals.

Pay Grade

Lab Coordinator I: Pay Grade 15
Lab Coordinator II: Pay Grade 16

Equal Opportunity Statement

FGCU is a State University System of Florida member and an Equal Opportunity and Equal Access employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.