Laboratory Manager – Great Opportunity in a Growing Industry
We are looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to lead the analytical laboratory for a specialist organisation in a fast-growing sector. In this role, you will manage the lab team, support production and R&D, and make sure all testing is accurate, reliable, and delivered on time.
Key Responsibilities:
Lab Management
* Run the day-to-day operations of the analytical lab.
* Manage and support a small team (Analytical Chemist and/or Technician/Apprentice).
* Plan workloads, maintain equipment, and make sure all testing is completed on time.
* Keep lab systems and documentation up to date and compliant with standards.
* Help set lab goals, KPIs, and long-term improvement plans.
Analytical Work
* Improve and develop new analytical methods.
* Make sure all testing and records are accurate and fully traceable.
* Solve complex analytical problems and support root-cause investigations.
Working With Other Teams
* Work closely with Production, Quality, and R&D to understand priorities.
* Manage testing requests and ensure resources are used effectively.
Safety & Quality
* Manage stock of chemicals, reagents, and lab consumables.
* Ensure safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
* Lead safety checks, risk assessments, and COSHH reviews.
* Support quality standards including ISO 9001 and ISO 17025.
General Duties
* Prepare reports and summaries for managers and other teams.
* Support audits and continuous improvement projects.
* Carry out other tasks as needed by the Technical Manager.
Qualifications
* Degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or similar (essential).
* MSc/PhD (desirable).
* Training in lab management, analytical techniques, or quality standards (desirable).
Experience
* Strong experience working in an analytical chemistry lab (essential).
* Experience developing and improving analytical methods (essential).
* Hands-on experience with:
* ICP-OES / LECO
* Metallography (Optical, SEM-EDX)
* XRD
* Physical testing (particle size, thickness)
* Experience supervising or mentoring staff (essential).
* Experience working to standards like ISO 9001 or ISO 17025 (essential).
* Experience supporting manufacturing or R&D teams (essential).