Lab Manager

Reports to Plant Manager

Job Summary

The Lab Manager will lead and direct all aspects of the quality control lab, as well as oversee lab safety programs and policies. The Lab Manager is responsible for maximizing plant operations to achieve highest product quality and quantity by testing and analyzing products in all process points. Responsible for awareness and compliance of all local, state and federal regulations as they are applicable to this position and in relation to the plant. The Lab Manager will support all policies, goals and objectives of the company, and will represent the company in a knowledgeable and professional manner.

Summary of Essential Job Functions

• Lead and direct all aspects and staff of the quality control lab.

• Responsible for training lab assistants and operators on the use of equipment and understanding results. Train employees on quality control tests in all aspects of production. Train plant operators in proper field sample techniques.

• Responsible for meeting quality objectives for all manufactured products by maintaining awareness of plant operations and process conditions. Responsible for identifying and communicating problems or changes in processes to Plant Manager.

• Oversee operation of lab equipment including HPLC, brix refractometer, moisture analyzer, Karl Fisher Columat titrometer, gravity tests, proof hydrometer, yeast counts and viability, moisture tests, water analysis, and other tests as needed or requested.

• Maintain dialogue with chemical, yeast and enzyme suppliers to ensure service, lowest pricing, technical support, and latest industry knowledge.

• Establish testing protocols and ensure that test results are repeatable and accurate.

• Maintain lab inventory of equipment and chemicals.

• Coordinate special testing requested by operations.

• Assist in research and development by working with Plant Manager on various projects.

• Oversee lab safety programs. Participate in and enforce PSM and PHA throughout the facility. Participate in safety committee meetings.

• Maintain adequate safety policy information and current lab MSDS sheets.

• Complete all compliance reports as required. Submit to Plant Manager timely to allow for completion of process and mailing.

• Must be aware of and fulfill Environmental Protection Agency requirements.

• Submit weekly QA report to Plant Manager.

• Assist with hiring of lab personnel. Conduct employee performance reviews to determine competency, knowledge and contribution of the lab technicians.

• Complete all tasks assigned by Plant Manager.

• Other duties not listed herein but which need to be accomplished to maintain safe and timely day-to-day operations of the lab and plant.

• Maintain confidentiality of all records and company matters.

• Maintain high level of service and work performance, promote team environment and maintain pleasant work environment.

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related field from an accredited college or university. Laboratory operations experience required, preferably in the ethanol industry. Experience in the development and management of safety programs and regulations is necessary. A background in Food Safety, HACCP, and related programs is a definite plus. Equivalent work experience may be substituted for education requirements. Requires the ability to lead and direct lab and plant staff. Requires strong communication, organizational, and time management skills; as well as being detail-oriented, possessing good time management skills, and being proficient in the use of computers. Must be willing and able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required by the job.

Abilities Required

The Lab Manager must be able to perform essential job functions satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. If an applicant or employee needs accommodations to perform the essential job functions, please advise the Human Resources Manager in writing as to the accommodations requested.