About the role
Position: Lab Manager, Photonics and Semiconductors Location: San Jose, CA Job Id: 625 # of Openings: 0 Lab Manager, Photonics and Semiconductors Location: San Jose, CA (Headquarters) | On-site Position Overview Reporting to the Senior Lab Manager, the Lab Manager keeps Ayar's laboratories and cleanrooms running safely, efficiently, and ready for the operations and engineering teams that depend on them. This is a hands-on role focused on the day-to-day operation of the labs — equipment, supplies, safety, and maintenance — while supporting the Senior Lab Manager on resource planning and lab expansion. You will be the primary point of contact for lab operations across our facilities and will partner closely with engineering, operations, IT, and outside vendors to make sure every lab requirement is met and aligned with company goals.
Responsibilities Run the Labs Day to Day: Own the daily operation, health, and care of Ayar Labs' laboratory and cleanroom facilities, serving as a primary point of contact for lab operations across office locations. Keep Equipment Ready: Coordinate routine preventative maintenance, service, annual calibrations, and certifications for all laboratory and related facility equipment (CDA system, vacuum system, pumps, and more), and manage the acquisition, installation, and qualification of new lab equipment. Manage Supply & Inventory: Run laboratory supply procurement end to end — forecasting, quotations, purchase orders, invoicing, and logistics — and receive, log, and store all incoming supplies and reagents, including bulk compressed gases, chemicals, and consumables. Champion Safety & Compliance: Help facilitate safety committee meetings and ensure compliance with all applicable safety rules and regulations, including the proper handling, secure storage, and timely disposal of chemical and biohazard waste. Build Better Processes: Develop and implement policies, standard operating procedures, training, and standards for lab operations, and maintain the supporting business systems (inventory, asset management, documentation). Support Planning & Growth: Partner with the Senior Lab Manager, finance, and engineering on lab resource planning, fixed-asset forecasting, and the scoping, design, and deployment of new lab equipment and stations. Coordinate Vendors & Facilities: Manage laboratory facilities support work — contractor and vendor services, equipment maintenance, and document retention — liaising with IT and facilities contractors. Required
