Lab Support Engineer

Katalyst CRO; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Katalyst CRO is seeking a skilled professional for lab systems support in Waltham, MA. Responsibilities include providing technical support for lab IT systems, developing automation tools, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance lab technologies. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with LIMS/ELN systems, a Bachelor's degree in a technical field, and knowledge of GxP validation. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential. This role offers opportunities for continuous improvement within digital lab environments.

Qualifications

• Proven technical hands-on experience with lab systems, including setup, configuration, and troubleshooting.
• Experience supporting or implementing LIMS, ELN, or scientific informatics systems within a GxP-regulated environment.
• Exposure to validation and qualification activities (IQ/OQ/PQ) and familiar with documentation practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical operational support for laboratory-based systems.
• Build, configure, and validate laboratory IT systems and instruments.
• Collaborate with Science, Facilities, Quality, and IT teams for new lab technologies.

Skills

Hands-on technical experience with lab systems

Scripting or automation (Python, PowerShell)

Collaboration with cross-functional teams

Understanding of lab instruments and systems

Validation and qualification experience

Stakeholder management

Attention to detail and documentation accuracy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent

Tools

LIMS

ELN

CMDB tools

Job description

Responsibilities

• Provide technical operational support for laboratory-based systems to ensure scientists can perform daily activities efficiently
• Build, configure, and validate laboratory IT systems and instruments, ensuring proper integration across applications such as LIMs, ELN, CDS, and equipment imaging systems
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Science, Facilities, Quality, and IT teams to deliver and support new lab technologies and infrastructure
• Develop basic scripts or automation tools to streamline lab workflows, data transfers, and reporting processes
• Participate in validation and qualification processes for lab systems in accordance with GxP and internal compliance standards
• Maintain accurate documentation and system inventory (CMDB) while partnering with strategic vendors to evaluate emerging lab solutions
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation within digital lab environments

Education & Experience

• Proven technical hands-on experience with lab systems, including setup, configuration, and troubleshooting (not purely functional or BA-level experience)
• Experience supporting or implementing LIMS, ELN, or other scientific informatics systems, preferably within a GxP-regulated environment
• Understanding of lab instruments, imaging systems, and data acquisition tools; ability to support system connectivity and integration
• Exposure to validation and qualification activities (e.g., IQ/OQ/PQ) and familiarity with common documentation practices
• Basic scripting or automation experience (e.g., Python, PowerShell, or similar)
• Ability to work collaboratively across lab and IT functions to translate user needs into technical solutions
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with attention to detail and documentation accuracy
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical disciplineor equivalent experience
• Experience working in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or healthcare IT environment supporting laboratory operations
• Knowledge of GxP validation frameworks and computerized system lifecycle processes (CSV, 21 CFR Part 11)
• Familiarity with instrument integration, imaging solutions, and lab network infrastructure
• Experience supporting 1st/2nd line incidents within a regulated lab environment using ticketing/CMDB tools
• Strong balance of LIMS administration and hands-on laboratory systems experience