Lab Operations Manager

About the role

SMDD is a multidisciplinary organization focused on the development and commercialization of parenteral formulations of both small and large molecules. Positioned within SMDD, the Lab Operations Manager will work closely with SMDD scientists and lab management to support laboratory operations. This position is tasked with developing and implementing a cohesive strategy to support a variety of non-testing activities across a diverse set of laboratories leveraging Lilly team members and external vendors. In addition, the Lab Operations Manager will provide support to laboratory administrative duties as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Proactively maintain appropriate lab supplies and consumables inventory by monitoring consumption. Support forecasting and capacity planning to ensure uninterrupted supplies. Interact with vendors supplying consumables and manage consumable delivery areas in laboratories.
• Knowledgeable of SMDD capital purchasing processes. Interacts with scientists to facilitate capital project identification, prioritization and submission.
• Build a strong partnership with the maintenance and equipment team to ensure that laboratory equipment is installed, qualified, maintained and repaired in an efficient manner.
• Knowledgeable of responsibilities and expectations for laboratory instrument system owners. Familiarity with the processes to connect new instruments to data management systems and able to provide guidance to system owners.
• Drive consistency across SMDD material cold storage areas (refrigerators and freezers) by establishing best practices for inventory management, alarm response and storage practices. Oversee the scheduling of routine defrosting/cleanouts of storage units.
• SMDD safety committee member facilitating lab inspection and reporting inspection results. Lead periodic lab clean outs. Facilitate laboratory housekeeping activities. Handle prior chemical approval/expiration authorizations. Partner with HSE to implement safety initiatives.
• Manage the vendor interface effectively and be the single point of contact for laboratory glassware and lab waste removal process across SMDD laboratories to ensure consistency.
• Identify and oversee the implementation of opportunities to increase lab efficiency such as equipment utilization and sample handling.
• Work with SMDD scientists to translate complex operational challenges and issues into actionable goals and deadlines for effective communication and management.
• Working knowledge of IT infrastructure, software applications, and technical requirements relevant to the role, with the ability to troubleshoot basic issues and adapt to new systems.

Minimum Requirements

• BS in a science or technical field with 4+ years of professional experience in the Biotech or Pharmaceutical industry
• Will also consider individuals with equivalent pharmaceutical industry experience such as HS Diploma with 8+ years of experience.
• Ability to work with laboratory personnel, contractors, vendors and management.

Additional Preferences

• 2+ years of direct lab management experience.
• Previous experience in lab setup, lab management, procurement, and inventory management.
• Ability to influence and partner with individuals outside of a formal reporting relationship towards realization of team goals.
• Customer-focused attitude.
• Demonstrates good verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent general computer skills (e.g., MS Excel, Microsoft Edge, PowerPoint, MS Word) and the ability to compile, summarize and present information to diverse groups.

Additional Information

Possible exposure to chemicals, allergens, and loud noises. No travel outside the Indianapolis area is expected.