Laboratory Specialist
firstproSomerville (MA)
About the role
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firstPRO is now accepting resumes for a Lab Operations Specialist role in Cambridge, MA. This is a 3+ month contract and onsite.
We’re seeking a hands-on contractor to implement an end-to-end freezer inventory for a biologics research team and to standardize functional bench areas using LEAN/5S. You’ll label racks/boxes, load records into a freezer management system, and leave behind clear SOPs and training so the system sustains.
Responsibilities:
Freezer inventory implementation
Audit all cold storage (e.g., -80 °C, -20 °C, 4 °C, LN2) and create a master map (freezer - shelf - rack - box - position)
Establish naming conventions and metadata fields (sample type, owner, project, lot, date, status, hazard)
Print and apply cryo-compatible labels; implement barcode schema (e.g., Code 128/QR) for racks, boxes, and tubes
Configure a freezer management system including roles/permissions, required fields, and location hierarchy
Reconcile legacy spreadsheets; migrate and/or bulk-import records; de-duplicate; resolve unknown/orphaned samples with owners
Draft SOPs/quick-start guides and train users; define stewardship/ownership and inventory cycle-count cadence
Qualifications:
3+ years in research lab operations (biologics preferred: proteins/antibodies, cells, reagents)
Proven freezer inventory implementation (barcoding/labeling, data migration, user training)
Practical LEAN/5S experience; able to facilitate small events and create visual standards
Comfortable with freezer management software and bulk-import workflows; strong Excel skills
Familiarity with barcode scanners, cryo-labels, and thermal printers; detail-oriented data hygiene
Able to lift up to 30 lbs and work safely in cold rooms/freezers; strong communication with scientists and EH&S
Experience in BSL-1 and BSL-2 research environments
Senioriy level Mid-Senior level
Employment type Contract
Note:
The original posting includes additional role listings and notices not directly related to this Lab Operations Specialist position. These have been omitted to focus on the core responsibilities and requirements of this role.
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