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When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead and support our environmental laboratory operations. This role is responsible for overseeing technical activities, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing staff, maintaining facility and equipment performance, and delivering high-quality analytical services to clients. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with deep technical expertise and a passion for operational excellence in a high-throughput production environment.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory Operations & Technical Leadership
Oversee daily laboratory operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and timely project completion
Provide technical guidance on instrument troubleshooting, method development, and data interpretation
Ensure proper use, calibration, and performance of laboratory instrumentation
Support development and implementation of new analytical methods
High-Throughput Production & Performance Management
Lead a high-volume production laboratory to consistently meet or exceed turnaround time (TAT) and on-time delivery (OTD) goals
Monitor and manage workflow, sample volume, and resource allocation across departments to maintain optimal throughput
Establish, track, and report key performance indicators (KPIs) including TAT, backlog, capacity, and productivity
Identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce cycle time, and improve service reliability
Partner with department supervisors to prioritize workload and ensure alignment with client expectations and contractual deadlines
Drive a culture of accountability and continuous improvement focused on operational excellence and customer satisfaction
Quality & Compliance
Ensure compliance with ISO 17025, NELAC, DoD , and other applicable regulatory standards
Partner with QA to maintain and improve laboratory quality systems
Monitor regulatory updates and communicate requirements to staff
Support audits and inspections
Facilities & Maintenance Management
Oversee laboratory facility operations, ensuring a safe, compliant, and efficient working environment
Coordinate preventative maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and building systems
Work with vendors and internal teams to maintain service contracts and ensure timely issue resolution
Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and operational requirements related to facility infrastructure
Identify and implement improvements to laboratory layout, utilities, and workflow efficiency
Team Leadership
Manage, mentor, and develop a team of 50+ laboratory personnel
Oversee hiring, training, performance evaluations, and staffing levels
Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performance work environment
Client & Business Support
Serve as a technical resource for client inquiries and data interpretation
Support project management and sales teams with technical expertise
Assist with proposals, QAPPs, SOWs, and client presentations
Systems & Process Improvement
Optimize laboratory workflows, systems, and data management processes
Collaborate with IT to support LIMS and automated reporting
Drive continuous improvement initiatives
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related science (required)
Minimum 5 years of laboratory management experience
Environmental laboratory experience strongly preferred
Technical Skills
Strong knowledge of ISO 17025 and environmental regulations
Experience with LIMS systems
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)
Understanding of organic and inorganic analytical methods
Leadership & Professional Skills
Proven success managing large teams (50+ staff)
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
Excellent communication and client relationship skills
Demonstrated…