Position Summary
The Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the testing laboratory in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. This role ensures that testing activities are conducted to the highest standards of accuracy, reliability, and integrity, while maintaining accreditation and meeting customer expectations. The Laboratory Manager will lead the technical team, manage resources, and ensure continual improvement of laboratory processes.
Key Responsibilities
1. Management & Operations
* Plan, organize, and manage the laboratory's daily testing activities in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
* Ensure adequate staffing, training, and competency of laboratory personnel.
* Oversee workflow scheduling, sample management, and turnaround times.
* Maintain laboratory infrastructure, equipment, and resources to ensure uninterrupted operations.
2. Quality & Compliance
* Implement, monitor, and maintain the laboratory's quality management system in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025.
* Work closely with the Quality Manager to support audits, proficiency testing, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
* Ensure that laboratory staff follow documented test methods, SOPs, and quality procedures.
* Ensure traceability of measurements, validity of test results, and integrity of data.
* Review and approve test reports before release.
3. Technical Leadership
* Provide technical guidance and problem-solving support to laboratory staff.
* Ensure appropriate method validation, measurement uncertainty calculations, and internal quality control practices.
* Keep updated with new test methods, technologies, and regulatory requirements relevant to the laboratory's scope.
* Coordinate with clients on technical inquiries and ensure customer requirements are met.
4. Health, Safety & Environmental Responsibility
* Ensure compliance with occupational health, safety, and environmental standards in the laboratory.
* Promote a strong safety culture and maintain risk assessments for laboratory activities.
5. Continual Improvement
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives in testing efficiency, accuracy, and quality systems.
* Identify opportunities for expanding laboratory capabilities and scope of accreditation.
* Support training programs and professional development of laboratory staff.
Qualifications & RequirementsEducation & Experience
* Minimum 10 years of experience in a testing laboratory environment, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
* Proven experience in ISO/IEC 17025 implementation and maintenance.
Knowledge & Skills
* Strong understanding of ISO/IEC 17025 requirements and laboratory quality systems.
* Demonstrated experience in test method validation, measurement uncertainty, and proficiency testing.
* Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
* Ability to analyze complex technical data and make sound decisions.
* Proficient in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and Microsoft Office Suite.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
* Compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements.
* Successful completion of internal and external audits with minimal nonconformities.
* Achievement of turnaround time and customer satisfaction targets.
* Competence and training compliance of laboratory staff.
* Effective implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
Working Conditions
* Laboratory environment with exposure to chemicals, biological materials, or testing equipment depending on the field of testing.
* Occasional travel for training, audits, or customer visits.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company car
* Company pension
Work Location: In person