XRD Technical Lead – Analytical Operations

SGS • East Syracuse, NY

1d • $65,000 - $75,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,6 0 0 offices and laboratories , working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world. Lead the Science. Shape the Workflow. Set the Standard. Our East Syracuse, NY laboratory is seeking an experienced XRD Technical Lead to supervise and grow a high-performing analytical testing team. This role is ideal for a hands-on analytical chemist who enjoys balancing technical problem-solving, team leadership, and operational excellence in a production laboratory environment. As the XRD Technical Lead – Analytical Operations, you will own day-to-day laboratory operations, guide analysts and technicians, and ensure high-quality, compliant data delivery—while actively promoting a strong culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, or equivalent education and experience
• 4+ years of experience in analytical testing laboratories
• Hands-on XRD experience in a production or analytical environment
• Strong understanding of laboratory workflows, process optimization, and sample lifecycle management
• Experience applying technical judgment to troubleshoot analytical challenges
• Knowledge of environmental testing protocols, regulations, and certifications
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Advanced English language skills (written and verbal)

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience supervising, leading, or mentoring laboratory staff
• Experience working in a high-throughput or production-driven lab
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Responsibilities

• XRD Laboratory Operations Lead daily XRD laboratory operations to meet turnaround time, throughput, and data quality objectives
• Coordinate workflow and sample prioritization to ensure production targets are consistently achieved
• Apply expert technical judgment to identify and resolve analytical or workflow challenges
• Ensure accurate sample tracking, processing, and documentation within LIMS
• Monitor instrument utilization and staffing alignment to maximize operational efficiency
• Team Leadership & Development Supervise, coach, and mentor analysts and technicians through clear expectations and hands-on leadership
• Partner with Team Leads, Senior Analysts, and the Laboratory Manager to support hiring, onboarding, and training
• Assist in developing junior analysts into fully productive XRD contributors
• Manage daily performance, address issues proactively, and model strong leadership behaviors
• Quality, Safety & Continuous Improvement Champion a safety-first laboratory culture and ensure adherence to all safety protocols
• Address safety concerns immediately (e.g., hood use, PPE compliance, chemical handling)
• Implement and reinforce best practices to ensure data quality meets or exceeds industry standards
• Maintain appropriate operating supplies and communicate potential risks or issues to management

Benefits

• Immediate eligibility for 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid vacation
• Four (4) floating holidays annually
• Seven (7) paid company holidays
• Sick time accrual
• Eligibility for company benefit programs starting the first of the month following hire
• Relocation assistance may be considered for qualified candidates with strong XRD experience.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees