Laboratory Manager – Genotyping & Molecular Testing in CA

Location: Mountain View, CA Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt Reports to: US Operations Director / LASO Biotech HeadquartersAbout LASO BiotechLASO Biotech is a global provider of DNA microarray genotyping solutions for animal and plant species, including cattle, swine, poultry, and sheep.LASO is establishing a Mountain View laboratory to provide showcase and contract validation for the North American market.We are seeking a hands-on Laboratory Manager to establish and operate the laboratory, lead the initial laboratory team, and ensure reliable, high-quality testing operations.Position SummaryThe Laboratory Manager will oversee the end-to-end laboratory workflow, from sample receipt through DNA extraction, genotyping, QC, and delivery of results.This is a hands-on management role.

The manager will participate in laboratory work, troubleshooting, SOP development, quality management, technician training, and day-to-day laboratory operations, particularly during the initial stage of the lab.Key ResponsibilitiesLaboratory Operations & TechnicalManage the end-to-end sample receiving and genotyping workflow, including sample registration, DNA extraction/QC, genotyping, data QC, and result delivery.Perform hands-on laboratory procedures and troubleshoot assay or equipment issues as needed.Establish and maintain SOPs, workflows, sample traceability, and laboratory documentation.Monitor testing quality, turnaround time, productivity, and repeat/failure rates.Work with LASO's China-based technical and data teams to implement and optimize genotyping methods and data workflows.Quality & ComplianceEstablish and maintain laboratory QC procedures and acceptance criteria.Investigate deviations, non-conformances, and assay failures and implement corrective actions.Support the development of an ISO/IEC 17025-compliant quality system, including SOP control, method validation, internal audits, and accreditation activities.Work with incubator lab to ensure appropriate laboratory safety, waste management, and applicable California and federal compliance requirements.Team LeadershipSupervise, train, and develop laboratory technicians.Assign daily work and ensure testing is performed accurately and according to SOPs.Establish technician competency and training programs.Build a culture of quality, safety, documentation, and continuous improvement.Customer, Vendor & Operational SupportServe as a technical contact for customers regarding sample requirements, testing workflows, panels, and technical issues.Coordinate equipment installation, maintenance, vendors, and laboratory supplies.Coordinate with logistics providers, customs brokers, and relevant regulatory parties for compliant receipt of biological samples.Candidate QualificationsRequiredMaster's degree or equivalent in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field; strong candidates with a Bachelor's degree may also be considered.5+ years of relevant hands-on experience in molecular biology, genotyping, genomics, or a related laboratory environment.Practical experience with DNA extraction, DNA QC, PCR/qPCR, SNP genotyping, microarray, or related molecular testing.Experience with high-throughput sample processing and laboratory QC.Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills.Experience training, supervising, or mentoring laboratory technicians.Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.Fluent English required; Mandarin Chinese is a plus.PreferredCommercial or contract testing laboratory experience.Experience with LIMS or laboratory sample-tracking systems.Experience with ISO/IEC 17025 or another formal laboratory quality system.Experience with method validation, internal audits, CAPA, or accreditation.Experience working with animal or agricultural genetic testing.Ideal CandidateThe ideal candidate is a hands-on laboratory professional who can independently operate a small commercial genotyping laboratory, while also managing technicians, maintaining quality standards, troubleshooting problems, and working effectively with customers, vendors, and the China-based technical team.Experience building a laboratory or testing workflow from the ground up is highly valued.What We OfferOpportunity to build and manage a new genotyping laboratory from the ground up.High autonomy and direct impact on LASO's North American operations.Competitive compensation and benefits, including health insurance, 401(k), and paid time off.Opportunity to work with advanced DNA microarray and genotyping technologies in an international environment.