Technical Service and Development Laboratory Manager

Kuraray America

About The Position

The North America TS&D Laboratory Manager leads the day-to-day operations of the Technical Service & Development (TS&D) Laboratory supporting PVB and high-value polymer sheet products for automotive and architectural glass applications. As a working supervisor in a three-person laboratory team, this role actively performs approximately one-third of the laboratory testing while overseeing workflow, priorities, and performance of the laboratory analysts. The position is responsible for executing and supervising testing activities, maintaining laboratory equipment and certifications, and ensuring accurate, timely delivery of analytical results. The TS&D Laboratory Manager works closely with Sales, Technical Service, Production, Quality, and R&D teams to support product quality, resolve customer and manufacturing issues, and enable successful market application. Through hands-on technical expertise, operational discipline, and team leadership, this role plays a key part in delivering customer value and supporting profitable business growth.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in technical discipline, Chemistry, Polymer Science/Engineering, Material Science/Engineering, Chemical Engineering
Minimum of 7 -10 years of relevant laboratory experience
Minimum of 3 years of supervisory or lead experience.
Hands-on experience with advanced laboratory instrumentation and analytical testing methods: adhesion testers, optical analyzers, Karl Fischer titration, gas chromatography, microscopes, FTIR spectroscopy, surface pattern and caliper measurement systems
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify abnormal results, and support investigations
Experience writing technical reports, developing SOPs, and supporting safety reviews and audit preparation.
Experience supporting laboratory equipment installation, upgrades, qualification, and maintenance.
Physical ability to perform laboratory work, including lifting materials that are 10-25 lbs, standing for extended periods, and using hand tools.
Strong organization, time-management, and communication skills in a fast-paced laboratory environment
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, SharePoint) and laboratory instrument software.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of ISO-based quality systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Establish annual laboratory objectives aligned with business goals, budget expectations, and team development needs to ensure successful execution of laboratory priorities.
Provide leadership and direction to support personnel development and sustained laboratory performance.
Assign and manage daily TS&D laboratory testing activities to ensure efficient workflows and timely completion of work.
Effectively organize, prioritize, and multitask in a high-volume, fast-paced laboratory environment.
Maintain the TS&D Laboratory's ISO 9001 certification and ensure ongoing compliance with quality system requirements.
Ensure accuracy, attention to detail, and data integrity, including the ability to identify abnormal results and draw sound conclusions from sample investigations.
Serve in a dual role as Laboratory Leader and Laboratory Analyst by defining appropriate test methods, independently conducting analyses, interpreting results, and preparing meaningful analytical reports for customers.
Apply strong leadership and analytical judgment to support Technical and Research teams with new product development, customer processes, and application-based testing.
Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment; coordinate with vendors to establish service contracts and resolve equipment issues.
Lead the acquisition, installation, qualification, and validation of new equipment.
Develop, maintain, and implement operating procedures and train laboratory personnel on equipment use and best practices.
Communicate effectively with laboratory staff, internal customers, and global laboratories across different regions and cultures.
Participate in all required safety and ethics training and demonstrate consistent compliance with safe work practices, including chemical handling.
Apply 5S principles to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.
Commit to ongoing personal skill development and continuing education.
Participate in travel opportunities to collaborate with customers and global sister laboratories as needed.