Laboratory Manager – Lucion Services (Gateshead)
Location: Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
About Us
At Lucion Services, we’re dedicated to making the world a safer place to live and work. As one of the UK’s leading risk management and compliance consultancies, our laboratories play a crucial role in delivering high-quality asbestos testing, environmental analysis, and scientific innovation. We’re now looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to join our Gateshead team and lead a talented group of professionals in driving operational excellence, technical quality, and continuous improvement.
The Role
As our Laboratory Manager, you’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of our busy analytical laboratories, ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency at every level. You will manage a team of laboratory professionals, uphold UKAS-accredited standards, and lead initiatives to improve performance, customer service, and technical capability.
Key Responsibilities:
*
Lead and manage a laboratory team of 10+ full-time employees, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration.
*
Maintain compliance with ISO 17025, LAB 30, and relevant quality management systems.
*
Oversee all aspects of laboratory performance, including workflow, sample preparation, and analytical procedures.
*
Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results in line with OTD (On Time Delivery) targets and client expectations.
*
Manage laboratory budgets, resources, consumables, and waste disposal.
*
Conduct staff training, authorisations, competency assessments, and performance reviews.
*
Support and lead UKAS audits, accreditation activities, and compliance monitoring.
*
Oversee participation in RICE, AIMS, AISS, SEMS, or equivalent proficiency testing schemes.
*
Develop and implement new analytical methods and drive investment in laboratory capability and innovation.
*
Interpret and report analytical data for internal and external clients.
*
Act as a technical mentor to laboratory and chemistry staff, ensuring robust analytical standards and safety protocols.
About You
We’re looking for a technically proficient, people-focused leader with a passion for laboratory excellence and continuous improvement.
Essential Requirements:
*
Minimum 5 years’ professional experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations.
*
Proven leadership experience managing teams of 10+ staff.
*
Strong understanding of ISO 17025, LAB 30, or similar quality systems.
*
Demonstrable record of improving customer service and laboratory performance.
*
Experience managing laboratory budgets and resources.
*
Competence in BOHS proficiency modules.
*
Sound knowledge of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
*
Proven experience with UKAS accreditation and audit processes.
Desirable:
*
RSPH Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management.
*
Experience developing new laboratory methods and implementing new technologies.
Why Lucion?
*
Competitive salary and benefits package.
*
Opportunity to lead within a UKAS-accredited, market-leading laboratory.
*
Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
*
A positive, inclusive culture built on safety, integrity, and innovation