Lab Operations Specialist (Freezer Inventory & LEAN Lab Organization)

LanceSoft

  • Cambridge, MA
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 6 days ago
Job Title: Contract Lab Operations Specialist (Freezer Inventory & LEAN Lab Organization)
Location: Cambridge, MA 02139 (Working from 3 different labs, within walking distance)
Duration: 03 Months (Possibility to extend)100% OnsiteTop skills needed: Familiarity with freezer management skills, experience with data entry and inventory managementAbout the role
  • 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.
Key ResponsibilitiesFreezer inventory implementation
  • Audit all cold storage (−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 [e.g., FreezerPro] 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.
LEAN / 5S lab organization
  • Run a light-weight 5S event for priority bench areas (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain).
  • Standardize bench layouts by function (e.g., PCR, protein assays, purification); create visual controls/shadow boards.
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 2 research environments.
  • Basic familiarity with chemical/biological labeling standards and hazard communication.

LanceSoft