Lead Scientific Support Specialist
About the role
We seek an enthusiastic Lab Specialist to join our dedicated Scientific Support team at Unity Lab Services. You'll be responsible for managing chemical inventory, performing lab support functions, and providing scientific support like buffer preparation.
Responsibilities
- Verify chemical inventory levels, locations, and expiration dates by performing bench audits and full-cycle counts using barcode scanners.
- Receive, inspect, label, and store incoming chemical shipments according to compatibility guidelines and DOT regulations.
- Identify and help resolve discrepancies in chemical handling, storage conditions, or inventory records.
- Use GDP for conjugate base pairing, titration techniques, chemical compatibility, and pH conductivity (including calibration) for buffer/media prep.
- Perform glassware washing and sterilization to ensure lab cleanliness and compliance with safety standards.
- May perform other duties as assigned by management.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Associate degree required, Bachelor's preferred.
- 3+ years of work experience in a lab setting required.
Qualifications
- Proven record of leading and mentoring teams, formally or informally.
- Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications (Excel, Outlook, Teams).
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a safety-first approach.
- Ability to read and understand SDS documentation and DOT labeling requirements.
- Ability to work independently and delegate tasks to others.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
Skills
- Physical strength to lift up to 40 lbs.
- Knowledge of cold room/freezer temperatures (-22°F/-6°C).
- Experience in laboratory settings.
- Understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Benefits
- Comprehensive healthcare, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and a range of employee benefits.
- Accommodation for job seekers with disabilities.
- Compensation range of $25.60–$38.00 per hour in Massachusetts.
- Variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results.
- A competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan.
- Employee assistance and family support programs.
- Short- and long-term disability insurance.
- Accident and life insurance.
- Commuter benefits.
- Tuition reimbursement.
Pay & Schedule
- Hourly pay range: $25.60–$38.00 in Massachusetts.
- Variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results.
Schedule
Standard Monday through Friday schedule.
Environmental Conditions
Working independently at customer sites, which may include areas with chemical-based allergens like penicillin and tetracycline. Personal protective equipment, such as lab coats, coveralls, facemasks, and steel-toe shoes, is often required. The position requires regular lifting of 30-40 lbs (up to 50 lbs occasionally) and using equipment like pushcarts and forklifts to move up to 100 lbs. Standing, walking, and manual material handling of chemical containers are frequent activities, sometimes in varied temperature environments. Overtime work may also be necessary.