Chemistry Operations Manager

Certified Group is a leading North American provider of laboratory testing and audit and certification services. The Certified Group of companies includes Food Safety Net Services (FSNS), Certified Laboratories, EAS Consulting Group, Labstat International Inc., Advanced Botanical Consulting & Testing (ABC Testing Inc.), Microconsult Inc. and Micro Quality Labs Inc. The Certified Group provides analytical testing and regulatory guidance services in the food & beverage, dietary supplements & NHP, cosmetics, OTC, personal care, tobacco, cannabis, nicotine, and hemp industries.

We are currently looking for a Chemistry Operations Manager to join our growing team!

In this key role you will manage the routine day to day activities and provide leadership to the Analytical Chemistry Department

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manages the department staff, equipment, quality, and safety programs.

• Works with the team on a proactive work plan and schedule to look ahead 5-7 days on testing due dates. Ensures that all necessary resources are planned ahead of time.

• Ensure that On-Time delivery and promised turnaround times on all testing.
• Manage the Quality Control programs (SQC/LCS/standards/spike) and all QC data.
• Manage the preventive maintenance programs for all equipment.
• Assist with method validations and matrix extensions for methods.
• Ensures all work is compliant with the ISO 17025 Quality System and Safety Programs.

• Provides proactive communication across and up through the internal organization regarding testing status and any impact to the business and customers.

• Interact with clients, vendors, and suppliers.

• Analytical and ability to plan for both short term and long-term business results.
• Ability to be inclusive in approach and be able to relate to others; see other people’s perspectives.
• In a team environment, manages the analytical chemistry staff to effectively ensure accurate, reliable, and timely results.
• Plan and schedule daily work assignments to comply with clients’ needs and produce the most effective utilization of employees, equipment, materials, and other resources.

• Review daily transmittals and log sheets for accuracy and to appropriately schedule work assignments.
• Mange the continuous training of the staff and documentation of all training activities.
• Facilitate and coordinate the comprehensive and timely performance evaluations for the department.
• Effectively interact with suppliers and vendors to maintain relevant inventory.
• Effectively supervise and participate in proficiency testing as required by accrediting/certifying bodies.
• Actively participate in bench work, as needed.
• Manage all preventative maintenance programs and interaction with vendors, as required.
• Ensure all supplies are maintained in stock.
• Ensures the Chemical Hygiene Plan is current and enforced.
• Effectively provide training and troubleshooting for staff as needed on new and existing methods.
• Working knowledge of the department technical SOPs and instrumentation.

• Coordinate all relevant QC records pertaining to the calibration, validation and maintenance of equipment, and the continuous training of employees.

• Proactively maintain compliance with testing procedures and requirements.

• Effectively communicate with clients on samples provided. This may involve communicating with clients to understand client issues and manage client’s expectations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• BS/BA degree in Chemistry; MS in Chemistry preferred.
• Seven (7) years analytical experience in a Chemistry laboratory.
• Strong technical skills.
• Experience with Instrumentation would be helpful - HPLC (FLD, RI, ELSD, DAD, etc.), LC/MS/MS (QQQ), ICP-X + ICP-MS, Ion Chromatography, GC + GC/MS, UPLC, Ability to utilize instrument software, troubleshoot issues and work with vendors of the equipment on optimal performance.
• 2-3 years of proven leadership qualities supervising 10+ employees.
• Project Management skills.
• Exceptional and demonstrated leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good problem solving and trouble shooting skills.
• Strong listening and mentoring skills.
• Teamwork and collaboration.

KEY POSITION COMPETENCIES TO BE MEASURED:

• Project Management skills
• Technical skills
• Excellent Communication and interpersonal skills
• Analytical and Problem Solving skills
• Leadership skills
• Negotiation skills
• Influencing skills
• Team building skills

BENEFITS:

• Progressive 401k Retirement Savings Plan
• Employer Paid Short- Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• Group Medical
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Dental
• Paid Holidays and Time Off