Laboratory Operations Assistant

Company Description
Zymeworks is a global biotechnology company managing a portfolio of licensed healthcare assets and developing a diverse pipeline of novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics to improve the standard of care for difficult-to-treat diseases, including cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune disease. The Company’s asset and royalty aggregation strategy focuses on optimizing positive future cash flows from an emerging portfolio of licensed products such as Ziihera® (zanidatamab-hrii) and other licensed products and product candidates such as pasritamig. In addition, Zymeworks is also building a portfolio of healthcare assets that can generate strong cash flows, while supporting the early-stage development of innovative medicines. We are a global company headquartered in Vancouver BC, with operations in Bellevue WA, Dublin IRE, and Singapore.

Why Work With Us

Nothing is more critical to our success than the quality of our team. The work we do is meaningful and impactful - we care about each other as well as the patients we serve. We offer challenging career opportunities, competitive benefits and an environment that recognizes and rewards performance.

This role will be located in Vancouver, BC and is full-time onsite.

The Lab Operations Assistant is an entry-level role responsible for supporting daily routine laboratory tasks to ensure an efficient, safe, and organized environment. Reporting directly to the Lab Operations Manager, the assistant works under close supervision, following established procedures to maintain supplies, manage waste, and support general facility compliance and scientific operations.

What You'll Do

• Perform daily lab upkeep, including glassware cleaning, running the autoclave, and keeping work areas functional.
• Foster collaborative relationships with research and cross-functional staff.
• Conduct daily inventory checks and replenish common consumables.
• Monitor, order, and log compressed gas cylinders and liquid nitrogen (LN2).
• Assist with chemical and biohazard waste disposal in compliance with safety standards.
• Assist in maintaining lab equipment inventory, calibration records, and documenting alarm events.
• Coordinate with the Facilities Team regarding maintenance affecting lab operations.
• Conduct routine inspections of eyewash stations and safety showers.
• Adhere to safety procedures, WHMIS protocols, and maintain TDG certification.
• Support laboratory projects, coordinating with stakeholders for casework and infrastructure adjustments.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Natural or Health Sciences preferred and 0-2 years of laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety regulations.
• Adhere to the highest degree of professional standards and strict confidentiality on matters that require discretion.
• Ability to solve simple and well-defined problems. Relies on guidance and established procedures.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams.
• Good organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities under supervision.
• Proficiency with MS Office and inventory database systems.
• Experience handling temperature-sensitive materials and hazardous waste management.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs as part of routine laboratory duties.

Total Rewards

We offer a comprehensive total rewards package, which includes competitive salaries, generous benefits, an outstanding work environment, and excellent opportunities for professional growth. We regularly benchmark our compensation against leading biotechnology companies in our geographies. 

The base salary range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position in the location for which the job is posted and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Within the range, individual pay is determined by a variety of factors and the salary offered may vary depending on the successful candidate’s location and qualifications (including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, education, training, skills, and experience).

Our total rewards package that includes: 

• Industry leading vacation and paid time off
• Exceptional medical, dental and vision benefits by country
• Zymelife health and wellness benefits
• Matching RRSP / 401K / Pension program
• Employee Share Purchase Program
• Employee Equity Program
• Paid time off to volunteer in your community

This role is not eligible for relocation or immigration support. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or disability.

NOTE TO AGENCIES:  Zymeworks values our relationships with our recruiting partners. We only accept resumes from those partners who have been contracted with us. Zymeworks is not responsible for any fees related to resumes that are unsolicited or are received without contract.