Laboratory Operations Coordinator

Worker Type Regular Job Description Laboratory Operations Coordinator Position Overview AeroVironment is seeking a Laboratory Operations Coordinator to join it's Biological Materials and Processing Research Team at their Dayton, Ohio facility. This role will play a critical part in supporting the setup of new lab facilities and implementing established workflows and procedures for lab management. Additional work will involve equipment maintenance coordination, safety/compliance activities, procurement support, inventory/logistics, and day-to-day facility coordination. This is a salaried position with work occurring Monday-Friday during regular business hours with occasional availability during off-hours required to respond to emergencies. The successful candidate will be organized, able to work independently on routine tasks while following established procedures, and able to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment. The hire will join a collaborative team of scientists, supporting their efforts on a variety of cutting-edge research projects. Key Responsibilities Maintain inventory records, monitor supply levels, and initiate reorder requests using established systems. Support the setup and physical installation of new laboratory equipment, coordinating with contractors and facilities personnel to install necessary utilities, including electrical, plumbing, compressed air, nitrogen, water supply/drain lines, vacuum, and exhaust venting. Support laboratory purchasing activities by obtaining vendor quotes, preparing required documentation, submitting requisitions, coordinating delivery, receiving, and return of equipment and supplies. Coordinate scheduled preventative maintenance and perform routine cleaning for laboratory equipment according to established procedures. Assist with initial laboratory safety and basic instrument orientation for new lab users using approved procedures and training materials to ensure proper equipment operation and user safety. Prepare, package, track, and process shipments for both hazardous and non-hazardous materials in compliance with established procedures and regulatory guidelines. Coordinate with internal colleagues, government researchers, facilities staff, base logistics, and corporate purchasing teams to support laboratory operations and resolve routine issues. Required Qualifications Associate’s degree in a relevant technical, scientific, or operations/logistics field or 3+ years of working experience in lab operations, logistics, or lab management. Basic knowledge of or familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, hazardous material handling, and occupational safety regulations. Strong organizational skills with keen attention to detail and accuracy in tracking records, documentation, and maintenance schedules. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with scientists, engineers, facilities staff, and vendors. Proficiency with standard desktop software (Microsoft Office Suite) and the ability to quickly learn web-based equipment tracking databases and procurement systems. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with workflows for molecular biology and biochemistry research. Exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven track record of bridging communication gaps. Self-motivation and initiative to identify and communicate supply chain bottlenecks, equipment maintenance needs, and facility issues before they disrupt research. Tactful approach to following and reinforcing established safety protocols, lab organization standards, and compliance rules while maintaining positive working relationships. Flexibility to adjust daily priorities quickly in a dynamic defense R&D setting with evolving requirements. Working Conditions and Physical Demands Most tasks will occur within an office and laboratory environment. Comfortable working with/around hazards: chemical (e.g., oxidizers, caustics, acids and bases), physical (high pressure/high t…

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