Associate Director, Laboratory Operations

Company: SonoThera
Location: South San Francisco
Posted on: June 24, 2025

Job Description:

Job Title: Associate Director, Laboratory Operations Location: South San Francisco, CA FLSA Status: Exempt Full/Part-Time: Regular Full-time Reports to: Executive Director, Pharmacology About SonoThera SonoThera is a venture-backed, innovative biopharmaceutical company focused on developing a novel ultrasound-guided non-viral gene therapy platform. Our technology allows for precise, non-invasive delivery of large genetic payloads (DNA, RNA, and combinations thereof) to various organs, providing durable expression with the flexibility for re-dosing and titration, all while minimizing off-target delivery. Our collaborative and interdisciplinary culture drives us to tackle the challenges of genetic medicine discovery and drug development. Job Description We are seeking a motivated Associate Director of Laboratory Operations to oversee day-to-day lab operations to ensure efficient lab infrastructure and support. Responsibilities: Organize, manage, and mentor the laboratory support staff. Serve as the primary point of contact for research groups. Train and cross-train team members as needed to enable continuous service to the company. Manage the ordering and restocking of common supplies, and coordinate with vendors for optimal pricing and delivery. Responsible for lifecycle management of lab equipment including service contracts, repairs, calibrations, preventative maintenance, and record retention Oversee and maintain equipment service contracts Establish and maintain relationships with vendors, sales representatives and service providers Source lab equipment and consumables, identify alternatives and negotiate pricing Coordinate sample management activities including support of LIMS-based inventory managements and shipping. Interface with employee health and safety and act as a liaison between departments and the scientific staff to complete lab modifications and ensure safety compliance. Coordinate tasks associated with lab space allocation for new employees, incoming equipment, and lab relocations With EHS, participate in and support lab safety programs, ensuring good lab upkeep, chemical inventory management, regulatory and OSHA compliance Oversee chemical management, review new chemical approvals, and ensure proper chemical storage, segregation, and compliance. Support cold storage equipment monitoring and response procedures Contribute to the organization and delivery of special projects related to facilities management (e.g., facilities buildouts, modifications, etc.) Monitor incoming and outgoing packages ensuring accurate documentation for domestic and international shipments. Technical Requirements and Skills: Ability to work independently and as a team member Ability to effectively manage employees and delegate effectively Proactive, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment Demonstrated knowledge of Lab Operations and lab equipment Customer service oriented with desire to support others Strong understanding of scientific concepts and terminology Knowledge of lab safety protocols (including Cal/OHSA), Chemical Hygiene Plan, and hazardous waste management Ability to interact and communicate with multiple personalities and prioritize competing needs Strong communication and interpersonal skills Strong record-keeping and organizational skills Proficient in MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, or a related field. MS/MBA a plus 10 years of industry work experience in biotech lab operations and biosafety 7 years of managerial experience Familiarity with vivarium operations a plus Compensation: The salary range for this position is $155,000 to $200,000 USD annually. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location. Benefits At SonoThera, we'll give you the tools to feel healthy, happy and secure. Equity and ownership in a fast-growing company. Access to a 24-hour gym Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision Commuting stipend based on your geographical location 401(k) Match: SonoThera offers a dollar-for-dollar match All full-time employees are eligible for our flexible time off policy Equal Opportunity for Diversity & Inclusion SonoThera provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Keywords: SonoThera, Santa Rosa , Associate Director, Laboratory Operations, Science, Research & Development , South San Francisco, California