Lab Manager

Lactalis LUSY•Londonderry, NH

43d•Onsite

About The Position

Lactalis US Yogurt, part of the Lactalis family of companies, is currently hiring a Lab Manager based in Londonderry, New Hampshire. The Lab Manager will be responsible for all plant laboratory operations and ensuring compliance with company and regulatory standards. This role will direct staff activities, guarantee timely and accurate testing to support production, and provide strategic leadership for quality control. Responsibilities will include managing analytical procedures for products, raw materials, and packaging to ensure safety and conformity. This role will ensure the lab operates effectively to meet both scientific and business needs while adhering to regulatory requirements and internal policies. The role will report to the Manager, Quality.

Requirements

An associate’s degree is required.
3+ years of experience leading, mentoring, and/or delegating work to others in a manufacturing facility is required.
5+ years of experience in a lab setting is required, dairy industry preferred.
Strong knowledge of laboratory testing principles, GMPs, and quality control regulation

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree is preferred
Majors in Business, Food Science, Engineering or related fields are preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide direction, leadership, and development for direct reports, including training, coaching, performance management, and handling employee relations issues.
Oversee all plant laboratory operations, including equipment, testing, and compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and protocols.
Manage lab Key Performance Indicator (KPI) files, performance tracking, internal audits, and reporting (daily, monthly, quarterly, annual).
Handle equipment qualification, calibration, maintenance, repairs, and purchasing of lab supplies.
Develop and maintain SOPs, training programs, and documentation for lab staff.
Lead investigations of abnormal or out-of-spec results and collaborate on troubleshooting with the central lab.
Manage lab budget, capital expenditures, and vendor relationships to ensure service quality.
Ensure proper execution of shelf-life programs and support food safety audits.
Define sampling plans for raw materials, packaging, and finished products; validate processes and provide QC data.
Maintain compliance with regulatory standards and ensure all quality instruments are calibrated and functioning.
The incumbent is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of the Quality Lab employees in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.