Chemistry Lab Operations Manager

Job Description

The Chemistry Lab Operation Manager will ensure optimal functioning of the laboratory analysis by optimizing resources allocated (material, human, energy, financial) to deliver accurate and reliable results in a predefined time. This position responds to the analysis demands within North America. Lead, manage, engage, develop and empower direct reports.

• PhD, degree or diploma in a science‑based program or equivalent level of experience (≥5 years of experience managing people in a laboratory environment)

• Experience with laboratory techniques (critical)
• Ensure the validity of results of analysis (critical)
• Experience in people management (asset)
• ≥5 years of work experience in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory (ideally) or in a science‑based industry
• Ability to work under pressure, manage and analyze unexpected situations
• Knowledge of food safety and nutrition (asset)
• Excellent communication
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Microsoft Office/Excel proficiency required (Excel as priority)
• Demonstrated project management skills

• Ensure coherence and oversee daily operations within the laboratory; manage schedule
• Develop direct reports; personnel administration (holidays, recruitment, etc.)
• Ensure customer satisfaction through reliability and timely results
• Support corrective action, preventive action and continuous improvement (CAPA) programs in collaboration with the management team
• Coordinate daily scheduling/meetings to prioritize analysis flow
• Perform regular performance reviews and help with career planning for direct reports
• Validate internal and external results; ensuring competence and empowerment of analysts
• Ensure sufficient coverage for analysis and encourage cross‑training to ensure zero downtime
• Participate in validation of analytical methods pertaining to the lab unit
• Monitor control charts; ensure implementation of preventative maintenance of equipment
• Enforce importance of respecting quality, health and safety, and environmental requirements of the lab and site
• Follow KPIs and generate progress plans; deliver true, accurate results in a timely manner and manage emergencies by constantly adapting resources
• Provide technical advice for analysis; monitor and handle non‑conformance, corrective/preventative actions, and derogations pertaining to the laboratory
• Monitor and handle customer complaints when reliability of results are questioned for the laboratory
• Support the QMP & SAFETY Coordinator in preparation of management reviews, and represent the laboratory unit during the review
• Conduct team weekly/daily meetings; participate in business partnership meetings
• Work as a team player, including open and honest communication
• Respect the Mars 5 Principles and the Ethics and Compliance at Mars policy (conflicts of interest and confidentiality)
• Must be able to travel as needed
• Other duties as assigned by Line Manager

• Work with diverse and talented associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose‑driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best‑in‑class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in‑house Mars University.
• An industry‑competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.