Analytical Lab Manager

Valvoline Global • Lexington, KY

8d

About The Position

As the Analytical Lab Manager, you will oversee the daily operations of Valvoline’s oil analysis laboratory, leading a team of skilled scientists dedicated to lubricant testing, equipment calibration, and certification processes. You will ensure full compliance with ASTM standards while fostering a culture of safety, precision, and continuous improvement. You will actively promote and model Valvoline’s safety-driven culture, demonstrating enthusiasm and accountability in every task. The role includes training team members on the routine operation, maintenance, and theory of analytical instrumentation, as well as adherence to SOPs and regulatory guidelines. You will prepare detailed reports summarizing analytical data, recommend improvements to testing methods and workflows, and proactively communicate findings and insights with formulators, peers, and other internal and external customers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline (Master’s preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in an analytical or lubricant testing laboratory, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise with ASTM D-series test methods for oil and lubricant analysis.
• Experience managing laboratory equipment calibration and certification programs.
• Proficiency with analytical instruments including ICP, FTIR, viscometers, Karl Fischer titrators, and other industry specific equipment.
• Working knowledge of ASTM standards and quality assurance systems.
• Experience with LIMS platforms and data integrity protocols.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to mentor, motivate, and develop team members.
• Excellent analytical and troubleshooting abilities.
• High attention to detail, organizational strength, and commitment to operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of laboratory professionals focused on oil and lubricant analysis.
• Coordinate testing schedules, priorities, and resources to meet customer and operational goals.
• Review, validate, and approve analytical data to ensure consistency and compliance with ASTM and Valvoline standards.
• Oversee calibration and certification of analytical instruments (e.g., ICP, FTIR, viscometers, Karl Fischer titrators, and other industry specific equipment).
• Maintain and manage equipment calibration schedules, documentation, and traceability in alignment with corporate quality systems.
• Support the development, implementation, and improvement of laboratory SOPs and testing methodologies.
• Ensure all laboratory activities meet safety, environmental, and quality requirements.
• Act as the technical point of contact for oil analysis programs, method troubleshooting, and customer inquiries.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging data and process insights to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
• Stay current with evolving ASTM test methods, emerging technologies, and best practices in lubricant testing and equipment calibration.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health insurance plans (medical, dental, vision)
• Health Savings Account (with employer base deposit and match)
• Flexible spending accounts
• Competitive 401(k) with generous employer base deposit and match
• Incentive opportunity
• Life insurance
• Short and long-term disability insurance
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee discounts
• PTO Buy/Sell Options
• Tuition reimbursement
• Adoption assistance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager