Lab Director

ACZ Laboratories•Tucson, AZ

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Lab Director to oversee the development and management of a new laboratory facility in Tucson, AZ. You will be employee number one at this new location and subsidiary, bearing the overall responsibility of setting up and managing laboratory operations. This will entail installing instruments & equipment, validating methods, obtaining certifications, hiring and developing staff, and implementing the quality system and infrastructure necessary to support operations, and travel 10% for conferences and client visits. As laboratory capabilities are developed and revenue is established, this position will evolve to include all key accountabilities listed below. You will report directly to ACZ’s CEO and be supported by the company’s existing knowledge and resources. The ideal applicant will find fulfillment in building something new and guiding it to success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in hard science, with preference for chemistry, environmental science, or geology.
5 years environmental testing laboratory management experience
Strong knowledge of environmental testing methods and regulatory framework
Proven leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
Thorough understanding of management and financial practices in all areas and phases of business operations
Strong knowledge of environmental testing methods and regulatory framework

Responsibilities

Actively engage and uphold ACZ’s mission, values, and quality systems in all aspects of work
Demonstrate alignment with the organization’s mission and vision in day-to-day tasks, decisions, and interactions.
Model organizational values through behavior, collaboration, and work ethic.
Identify and suggest opportunities for improving team or department alignment with the organization’s goals.
Provide feedback on processes or actions that may stray from the organization’s guiding principles.
Ensure efficient and effective laboratory operations & throughput by optimizing workflows, maintaining quality standards, and meeting turnaround time commitments
Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations to ensure timely, accurate, and efficient sample analysis
Manage sample flow, staffing, and instrumentation to meet turnaround time (TAT) commitments
Identify and resolve operational bottlenecks impacting productivity or quality
Optimize workflows, scheduling, and resource allocation to improve throughput and utilization
Coordinate cross-functional activities (sample receiving, prep, analysis, reporting)
Drive quality assurance and regulatory compliance by implementing and maintaining standards, ensuring adherence to applicable regulations, and promoting continuous improvement across laboratory operations.
Ensure compliance with applicable standards (e.g., A.A.C. Article 6, NELAP, state certifications, EPA methods)
Maintain and enforce the Laboratory Quality System
Oversee audits (internal, external, accreditation) and ensure timely corrective actions
Review and approve SOPs, method validations, and quality control procedures
Ensure data integrity, defensibility, and adherence to chain-of-custody requirements
Own financial performance and cost management by monitoring budgets, optimizing resource allocation, and driving cost-effective operations while maintaining quality and service standards
Develop and manage laboratory budgets, including labor, consumables, and capital expenditures
Monitor cost drivers and implement initiatives to improve margins and control expenses
Evaluate pricing, profitability, and service mix in coordination with leadership
Identify opportunities for efficiency gains, automation, and waste reduction
Track and report on key financial metrics (revenue, cost per sample, utilization)
Lead and develop the team by fostering a high-performance culture, supporting professional growth, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals and values
Lead, mentor, and develop laboratory managers, supervisors, and technical staff
Establish performance expectations and conduct regular evaluations
Drive a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement
Oversee hiring, training, and retention of qualified personnel
Ensure proper staffing levels to meet operational and growth demands
Deliver exceptional client service and technical support by ensuring timely communication and building strong, trust-based relationships
Support business development and client retention through technical expertise and responsiveness
Address client inquiries, data questions, and escalations
Ensure deliverables meet client requirements and regulatory expectations
Collaborate with sales/account managers on capabilities, timelines, and problem-solving
Participate in client meetings, audits, and site visits as needed
Ensure health, safety, and environmental compliance by enforcing standards, minimizing risk, and promoting a culture of safety and accountability across all operations.
Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety programs and regulations (OSHA, hazardous materials handling)
Promote a strong safety culture and enforce safe work practices
Oversee proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and waste
Investigate incidents and implement corrective/preventive actions
Drive continuous improvement and strategic growth by identifying opportunities for innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and aligning initiatives with long-term organizational objectives
Identify and implement process improvements, new technologies, and automation opportunities
Lead method development, validation, and expansion of service offerings
Support strategic planning, including capacity expansion and capital investments
Monitor industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging analytical techniques
Drive operational excellence initiatives
All other duties as assigned