Laboratory Manager

Ellesmere Port, England, United Kingdom

We are looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to lead the analytical laboratory for a specialist organisation in a fast‑growing sector. In this role, you will manage the lab team, support production and R&D, and make sure all testing is accurate, reliable, and delivered on time.

• Run the day‑to‑day operations of the analytical lab.
• Manage and support a small team (Analytical Chemist and/or Technician/Apprentice).
• Plan workloads, maintain equipment, and make sure all testing is completed on time.
• Keep lab systems and documentation up to date and compliant with standards.
• Help set lab goals, KPIs, and long‑term improvement plans.

• Improve and develop new analytical methods.
• Make sure all testing and records are accurate and fully traceable.
• Solve complex analytical problems and support root‑cause investigations.

• Work closely with Production, Quality, and R&D to understand priorities.
• Manage testing requests and ensure resources are used effectively.

• Manage stock of chemicals, reagents, and lab consumables.
• Ensure safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Lead safety checks, risk assessments, and COSHH reviews.
• Support quality standards including ISO 9001 and ISO 17025.

• Prepare reports and summaries for managers and other teams.
• Support audits and continuous improvement projects.
• Carry out other tasks as needed by the Technical Manager.

• Degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or similar (essential).
• Training in lab management, analytical techniques, or quality standards (desirable).

• Strong experience working in an analytical chemistry lab (essential).
• Experience developing and improving analytical methods (essential).
• Hands‑on experience with: ICP‑OES / LECO, Metallography (Optical, SEM-EDX), XRD, Physical testing (particle size, thickness).
• Experience supervising or mentoring staff (essential).
• Experience working to standards like ISO 9001 or ISO 17025 (essential).
• Experience supporting manufacturing or R&D teams (essential).

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Research

Wholesale Metals and Minerals

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