Quality Lab Manager

Ultra Pouches • Frankfort, KY

1d

About The Position

Ultra™ is already the #1 brand of nicotine-free pouches in the world and we only launched 10 months ago—we’re just getting started. We’re building a modern consumer brand around a simple idea: pouches should be good for you. The market shift is massive: nicotine pouch sales are up 3,000% since 2019 and projected to reach $20B+ globally. Ultra is leading the next wave—nicotine-free, functional, and clean. As Quality Lab Manager at ULTRA , you’ll be the hands-on engine behind our lab operations—managing day-to-day laboratory activities, running pilot-scale batch production, and operating pouch machinery to push product development forward. You’ll own lab equipment, ingredient inventory, and pilot manufacturing workflows while serving as a critical quality bridge between our internal R&D team and co-manufacturing partners. This is a builder’s role. You’ll be on the floor, in the lab, and at co-man sites—ensuring every pouch meets the standard that makes Ultra the best in the category. If you thrive in fast-paced, hands-on environments and want to help shape quality at a brand that’s redefining the pouch industry, this is your opportunity.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related technical field.
• 3–5 years of experience in a laboratory, quality, or manufacturing environment within CPG, nutraceutical, tobacco/nicotine, or pharma.
• You’ve got demonstrated hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting manufacturing or lab-scale equipment.
• You’re fluent in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and quality systems documentation.
• You’re detail-obsessed with excellent organizational and record-keeping skills.
• You’re comfortable with travel to co-manufacturing sites (estimated 10–25%).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with oral pouch, nicotine pouch, smokeless tobacco, or similar oral product manufacturing.
• Familiarity with pouch filling/sealing machinery, co-manufacturer audits, CAPA systems, or ERP/inventory management systems.

Responsibilities

• Laboratory Operations & Equipment Management
• Ingredient Inventory Management
• Pilot-Scale Batch Production
• Pilot-Scale Pouch Machine Operation
• Quality Assurance — Co-Manufacturing Site Support
• Third-Party Analytical Testing
• Documentation & Compliance

Benefits

• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, HSA access, a 401(k), and Ultra pouches!

What This Job Offers

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