Laboratory Operations Manager: Growth & Innovation

acornbiolabs; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Acorn Biolabs is seeking a Manager, Technical Affairs – USA to lead day‑to‑day laboratory operations at the Irvine, CA facility. You will drive quality, operational excellence, and team development while coordinating with senior leaders to align scientific and operational goals.

The ideal candidate brings hands‑on leadership in a regulated biotech lab, excels at coaching, and thrives in a fast‑moving environment where processes evolve with growth.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience directly managing and developing employees in a lab or regulated setting.
• Strong coaching and feedback skills with the ability to develop staff at different levels.
• Experience overseeing lab production, sample processing, analysis, QC, and cryopreservation.
• Ability to implement process improvements and drive operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily laboratory production and operations, including sample processing and QC.
• Lead, support, and develop Lab Technicians as direct reports, fostering accountability and continuous learning.
• Manage staff scheduling and resource allocation for efficient daily priorities.
• Set clear expectations and ensure work is completed accurately, on time, and to high standards.
• Provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback to team members.
• Partner with senior leadership on performance reviews, development plans, and cross‑functional initiatives.

Skills

People leadership

Laboratory operations

Quality & compliance

Performance coaching

Resource planning

Job description

Acorn Biolabs is seeking a Manager, Technical Affairs – USA to lead day‑to‑day laboratory operations at the Irvine, CA facility. You will drive quality, operational excellence, and team development while coordinating with senior leaders to align scientific and operational goals.

The ideal candidate brings hands‑on leadership in a regulated biotech lab, excels at coaching, and thrives in a fast‑moving environment where processes evolve with growth.