Laboratory Manager - Running lab where precision, people and purpose meet

Laboratory Manager - Running a lab where precision, people and purpose meet The Role

As our Laboratory Manager
, you’ll be at the heart of our Gateshead laboratory, keeping everything running smoothly, safely and efficiently. You’ll lead a talented team of analysts and technicians, maintain UKAS‑accredited standards, and drive continuous improvement across quality, service and technical capability.

• Leading a team of 10+ lab legends
  , keeping morale high, standards higher, and safety non‑negotiable
• Being the calm, capable force behind a UKAS‑accredited operation — ISO 17025 and LAB 30 are basically your second language
• Orchestrating the daily flow of samples, workflows and analysis so everything runs smoothly (and on time)
• Making sure results land where they should, when they should — hitting OTD targets without cutting corners
• Keeping a close eye on budgets, consumables and kit, ensuring the lab is well‑stocked, well‑equipped and well‑run
• Training, authorising and developing your team — spotting potential, building confidence and growing capability
• Leading UKAS audits with confidence (and minimal stress), keeping compliance tight and documentation spotless
• Making sure the lab shines in RICE, AIMS, AISS, SEMS and other proficiency testing schemes
• Driving innovation by improving methods, upgrading capability and championing smarter ways of working
• Interpreting analytical data and translating numbers into meaningful, trusted results
• Acting as the lab’s technical north star — mentoring chemists and analysts, and setting the gold standard for safety and quality

• Experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations
• Proven experience managing teams
• A solid understanding of ISO 17025, LAB 30 or equivalent quality systems
• A track record of improving laboratory performance and customer service
• Experience managing budgets, resources and laboratory operations
• Competence in BOHS proficiency modules
• Strong knowledge of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
• Hands‑on experience with UKAS accreditation and audit processes

• Mid‑Senior level

• Full‑time

• Management and Quality Assurance
• Industries: Environmental Services, Public Health, Construction