Lab Manager

Valley Queen•Milbank, SD

47d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lab Manager is responsible for leading all aspects of operations across all laboratory locations, both owned and contracted. Executing direction set by the Director and ensuring consistent performance across their team. This position is accountable for team performance, operational results, and developing front-line leadership capability. This role plays a critical part in driving consistency, reinforcing standards, and ensuring that systems, processes, and expectations are effectively implemented to support Valley Queen’s operational and business objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience in the applicable area of responsibility.
Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible experience, including at least two (2) years demonstrated success leading teams and delivering results is essential.

Nice To Haves

Experience in dairy processing or manufacturing.
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

Owns the day-to-day performance of the department, ensuring safety, quality, and operational standards are consistently met along with schedules, staffing plans, and processes.
Executes departmental goals and priorities aligned with company strategy.
Establishes, monitors, and delivers KPI’s aligned with departmental and organizational goals.
Leads and develops Supervisors and Leads to ensure strong execution and team effectiveness.
Reinforces culture, expectations, and leadership behaviors established by the organization.
Ensures role clarity and accountability across their team to drive efficient operations.
Builds and maintains a highly engaged, performance-driven team environment.
Supports talent development by coaching employees and identifying growth opportunities.
Drives accountability through regular performance discussions and follow-up.
Identifies operational challenges and implements solutions to improve performance.
Ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Executes continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency and cost control.
Utilizes data and metrics to improve decision-making and performance.
Supports budget adherence by managing resources effectively.
Coordinates and supports execution of projects within scope and timelines.
Communicates effectively across departments.
Partners with cross-functional teams to improve operations.