Lab Operations, Associate 1
Location San Rafael, California Workstyle Onsite Only ApplyWho We Are
BioMarin is a global biotechnology company that relentlessly pursues bold science to translate genetic discoveries into new medicines that advance the future of human health.
Since our founding in 1997, we have applied our scientific expertise in understanding the underlying causes of genetic conditions to create transformative medicines, using a number of treatment modalities.
Using our unparalleled expertise in genetics and molecular biology, we develop medicines for patients with significant unmet medical need. We enlist the best of the best – people with the right technical expertise and a relentless drive to solve real problems – and create an environment that empowers our teams to pursue bold, innovative science. With this distinctive approach to drug discovery, we’ve produced a diverse pipeline of commercial, clinical and preclinical candidates that have well-understood biology and provide an opportunity to be first-to-market or offer a substantial benefit over existing therapeutic options.
About Worldwide Research and Development
From research and discovery to post-market clinical development, our WWRD engine involves all bench and clinical research and the associated groups that support those endeavors. Our teams work on developing first-in-class and best-in-class therapeutics that provide meaningful advances to patients who live with genetic diseases.
The Laboratory Operations Associate 1 supports daily activities across one or more laboratories by following established procedures and protocols. This role is focused on building knowledge of lab operations through hands-on experience. The Laboratory Associate provides operational support to all RED laboratories throughout the product lifecycle, from early non-clinical stages to all phases of clinical development. Individuals in this role understand and can apply GxP regulations to various processes and technologies as they are used and evaluated prior to use for regulated testing.
This role is responsible for providing operational support to all RED laboratories, including routine laboratory maintenance, equipment upkeep, preparation of buffers, cleaning of dishware and glassware, and facilitating shipping and receiving activities as necessary. The Associate 1 is expected to identify operational issues and promptly escalate them to senior staff for resolution.
Routine work will be conducted according to detailed protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs); the Associate should seek guidance when needed. Accurate documentation and communication of raw data, data analyses, and interpretations to laboratory stakeholders is essential. General responsibilities also include maintaining a safe, compliant, and inspection-ready laboratory environment.
Responsibilities
- Perform procurement (e.g., through Coupa) and receipt of lab consumables/chemicals outside of the vendor management inventory program.
- Assist with buffer preparation and related activities.
- Provide glassware, dishwashing, and autoclave services.
- Adhere to laboratory safety protocols, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct safety inspections of assigned lab workspaces and help maintain an inspection-ready state.
- Maintain GxP compliance by following SOPs and completing necessary training.
- Support laboratory clean-outs and contribute to 5S organizational initiatives.
- Conduct internal maintenance cleaning, preventative maintenance, and performance verifications in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and scheduled intervals.
- Submit equipment requests and process maintenance work orders using the CMMS platform.
- Clearly identify and red tag any equipment that is out of service.
- Initiate work orders to address facility-related issues, such as water leaks.
- Provide support for laboratory improvement projects.
- Maintain a professional relationship with vendors by organizing regular structured meetings, ensuring clear communication, and responding promptly.
- Communicate expectations and requirements for scheduled services and documentation to vendors in a timely and effective manner.
This role requires effective teamwork, attention to detail, and a commitment to best practices in laboratory operations, safety, and compliance.
EDUCATION
- Minimum: Completion of high school diploma or equivalent and work experience in a scientific laboratory.
- Preferred: Associates degree in a scientific discipline and experience as a laboratory technician, laboratory assistant, or sample processor
EXPERIENCE
- Minimum: 2 years relevant work or Bachelors degree
- Preferred: Bachelors degree with 1-year related experience in a laboratory, or biotechnology company.
- Preferred: Excellent writing and verbal communications skills.
Note: This description is not intended to be all-inclusive, or a limitation of the duties of the position. It is intended to describe the general nature of the job that may include other duties as assumed or assigned.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
For additional benefits information, visit: https://careers.biomarin.com/benefits.
- Eligible employees may participate in benefit plans, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.