Chemistry Lab Manager

Certified Group•Kitchener, ON

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise – So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries. Our Brands Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries: Certified Laboratories – Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries. Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) – A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry. Labstat – A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology. EAS Consulting Group – A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors. FSNS Certification & Audit – Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs. Job Summary: Reporting to the Sr. Director Chemistry, the Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) in conjunction with the Shift Supervisors (Sample Preparation) is overall responsible for the running of the Sample Preparation team in the laboratory. In this capacity, the Shift Supervisors (Sample Preparation) report directly into the Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation). The Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) will work closely with the Director Chemistry to drive improvements in both quality and efficiency within the Sample Preparation Department. This role requires the Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) to have a detailed knowledge of the laboratory processes, quality requirements, methods, and equipment to enable them to lead trouble shooting and ensure full compliance to methods and laboratory procedures, including applicable Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) & Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements. While this job will primarily be on the day shift. Flexibility in working hours is expected to enable operational business needs to be addressed e.g. peak times, unforeseen circumstances.

Requirements

Degree or equivalent experience
Diploma/Degree in Chemistry related program or equivalent experience
Several years’ experience in laboratory leadership or equivalent
Minimum 5 years’ experience in Sample Preparation
Strong knowledge and understanding of sample extraction and clean-up
Minimum 2 years’ experience in a leading role related to sample extraction
Detailed understanding of ISO 17025, GLP & GMP

Responsibilities

Manages the day to day activities of the sample preparation area through the Shift Supervisors and Shift Leaders providing direction, guidance and advice as required, including: Ensuring that internal and external deadlines are met and procedures are followed. Prioritization and allocation of workload. Lead improvements in quality and throughput for the Sample Preparation area. Recommending equipment needs and resources for the Sample Preparation function. Equipment and method troubleshooting.
Oversees training: Ensures training covers quality management procedures, technical procedures related to the role, methods related to assigned testing, safety procedures and protocols, as well as regulatory requirements and standards, including ISO 17025 guidelines. The Manager shall ensure that training is conducted by qualified personnel, the necessary SOPs, test methods and training records are issued, training is documented and records are maintained. Manager shall verify the individual has demonstrated competency before authorizing them to perform specific tasks independently. The Manager can organize outside training sessions for team as approved through the Training Action Suggestion. Ensures cross training to equip team members with multiple skills in order to maximize flexibility of available resources.
Work in cooperation and communication with the Production, Project Coordinator(s) to ensure availability of resources and equipment to maximize utilization and throughput.
Solving of technical issues / client inquires.
Assists the Director Chemistry in developing and executing plans for improvements in operational efficiencies.
Develops new SOPs as needed and maintains existing SOPs describing Sample Preparation processes.
Will participate in performance review process.
Will work closely with Shift Supervisors, Shift Leaders and Human Resources to promote a positive workforce.
Will work closely with Health & Safety to ensure compliance and to promote Health & Safety. Working with Health & Safety, will be responsible to be actively involved with regards to employee’s WSIB return to work plan and modified duties.
The employee shall implement the Laboratory Quality Policy and perform their duties in accordance to existing project specific requirements, current Test Methods, study plans and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
Compliance to Health & Safety policies and procedures and wear required Personal Protective equipment at all times.
Other duties as assigned.