Laboratory Manager - Analytical Testing

Job Description

Are you an inspiring leader with a scientific background, ready to empower teams and drive operational excellence? Do you want to be at the heart of the UK’s largest independent water testing facility—where your expertise helps safeguard drinking water quality for millions? NSF is seeking a Laboratory Manager to lead our analytical testing laboratory in Oakdale, South Wales. Reporting to the Director Labs UK, you’ll manage a talented team dedicated to performing a diverse range of analytical tests on water samples and materials that come into contact with drinking water.

You’ll ensure all work meets ISO/IEC 17025 standards and national/international regulations, using your scientific skills in a leadership role that drives operational excellence and makes a real difference to public health.

• On-site Leadership:
  Lead a team of nine direct reports and collaborate with cross-functional partners.
• Comprehensive Benefits:
  Health cover, company sick pay, income protection, and wellbeing support.
• Empowering Culture:
  Diversity, inclusion and safety are core values.
• Wellbeing & Volunteering:
  Employee Assistance Programme, paid Mental Wellness Day, and paid time off for volunteering.
• Lab Excellence:
  Shape best practice and drive continuous improvement as a manager.

• Lead, motivate, and empower analytical laboratory staff.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and development.
• Optimise laboratory workflows and processes.
• Ensure full compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards and Health & Safety requirements.
• Manage a diverse portfolio of analytical tests including water sample analysis, product testing, odor/flavor assessments, and basic microbiological work.
• Collaborate with Account Management and laboratory teams to plan and prioritise work.
• Monitor laboratory income, budgets, and KPIs.
• Champion a strong safety culture and promote open communication.
• Support implementation of lean methodologies and best practices.

• Proven leadership experience within a scientific or laboratory environment.
• High standard of education, ideally a degree in a relevant technical discipline.
• Strong management skills and a track record of motivating teams.
• Excellent process management abilities, with experience in workflow optimisation and continuous improvement.
• Business management and financial acumen.
• Technical proficiency in analytical laboratory operations and safety requirements.

• Do the Right Thing.
• Treat People Well.
• Relentlessly Pursue Excellence.
• We are one NSF.

Ready to lead and inspire? Apply now with your CV and cover letter.

With a legacy spanning more than 80 years, NSF leverages science and innovation to improve human and planet health. We provide science-driven, independent testing, inspection, certification, and advisory services and develop the very standards that drive the food, water, and life sciences industries worldwide. We empower our clients to navigate shifting regulations to improve consumer health, safety, and quality of life.

NSF is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, or disability.