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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage lab operations, procurement, and project management while supporting experimental work.
- Company: Join Planet Smart, a start-up tackling plastic pollution with innovative biomaterials.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance bonus, 20 days holiday, and coaching support.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team making a real impact on the environment.
- Qualifications: BSc/MSc in Chemistry or Material Science with 3 years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: On-site role located in White City, London.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 48000 £ per year.
Planet Smart is developing new biomaterials to face the plastic pollution crisis and curb carbon emissions from this polluting industry. We are first tackling menstrual pads.
Your Role
As laboratory operations manager, you will work closely with the founding team and the research team to manage both long-term and day-to-day laboratory operations. The role covers several areas, giving you exposure to experimental work, project management and procurement.
Responsibilities
- Procurement: manage the laboratory budget & inventory and ensure timely replenishment of stock, maintain relationships with existing suppliers and assess new vendors.
- Project management & reporting: Deliver regular reports on work completed in an organized manner, support the founding team in ensuring experimental work is done according to project plan and identified priorities.
- Operations: Act as liaison between the research team and the building management/services, investigate availability of and book equipment.
- Experimental work: Take over routine finished product testing according to standardized procedure.
Knowledge / Experience required
- BSc/MSc in Chemistry or Material Science.
- At least 3 years professional experience in operations, project management, scheduling or laboratory work in life science/chemistry setting.
- Laboratory work experience, at minimum during university studies.
- Experience delivering timely reports to leadership.
- Structured and organized way of working for overall lab management.
- Experience in lab data analysis with attention to detail.
- Entrepreneurial spirit and can-do attitude, presenting solutions rather than problems.
- Excellent communication skills and experience working in multicultural teams, fluent in English.
What we offer
- 12-month starting contract at £35-40,000 plus 12% performance bonus, with possibility to extend.
- 20 days holidays + bank holidays.
- Access to a professional & personal coach.
- Location: White City, London (on-site presence for this role is necessary).
Contact Detail:
Planet Smart Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Planet Smart's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and innovation will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing your passion for the environment and how your experience can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the biomaterials and sustainable product sectors. Attend relevant industry events or join online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights into the company or the role, which could give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your project management and laboratory operations experience. Be ready to explain how you've successfully managed budgets, inventory, and supplier relationships in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by preparing questions for the interview that reflect your understanding of the role and the company's projects. This not only demonstrates your interest but also your ability to engage effectively with diverse teams, a key requirement for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Company Mission: Familiarise yourself with Planet Smart's mission to tackle plastic pollution. Highlight your alignment with their values in your application, showcasing your passion for sustainability and innovation.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects relevant experience in laboratory operations, project management, and procurement. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to manage budgets and deliver reports effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your enthusiasm for the role. Discuss how your background in Chemistry or Material Science equips you to contribute to Planet Smart's goals.
Highlight Multicultural Experience: Since the role requires excellent communication skills in multicultural teams, mention any relevant experiences you have working in diverse environments. This will show your adaptability and ability to collaborate effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Planet Smart
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of laboratory operations and project management. Brush up on your knowledge of chemistry and material science, as well as any relevant experience you've had in these areas.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires structured and organised lab management, be prepared to discuss how you manage budgets, inventory, and supplier relationships. Bring examples of how you've successfully handled similar responsibilities in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As you'll be liaising between teams, it's crucial to showcase your excellent communication skills. Prepare to discuss experiences where you've effectively communicated complex information to diverse teams or stakeholders.
✨Emphasise Your Problem-Solving Attitude
Planet Smart values an entrepreneurial spirit and a can-do attitude. Be ready to share examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you presented solutions rather than problems.
