Manager, Laboratory Operations

Job Description

Job Description

Purpose  

This position oversees the operations of their applicable laboratory and is responsible for developing their team. This includes directing and monitoring the operations of production, quality and safety activities to ensure compliance with POLARIS policy.  

Essential Functions  

• Manages laboratory staff while facilitating a "team environment" 
• Monitors and facilitates laboratory production workflow, hours and overtime. 
• Performs daily routine lab analysis as needed. 
• Lead, train, mentor and develop team 
• Monitor daily operations of department and strive for maximum efficiency  
• Develop and monitor continual process improvements 
• Facilitate communication between departments 
• Responsible and authorized for Maintenance and Calibration of laboratory  
• Ensure consistency of all methods and processes at all POLARIS facilities 
• Assist in developing annual department budget 
• Manage department budget 
• Complete expense reports in a timely fashion 
• Conduct employee reviews and disciplinary actions as necessary 
• Foster a “team” environment 
• Lead presentations and meetings in a professional manner 
• Serve as deputy of the Quality System 
• Assist in the review of test methods and their validation 
• Ensure a safe and pleasant work environment 
• Performs duties of Safety Manger for their Laboratory and is responsible for safety training and safety regulation compliance. Including but not limited to Hazardous materials compliance and reporting 
• Interview and make recommendations for department employees 
• Promote awareness of customer requirements throughout the organization 
• Prepare and issue written correspondence, including progress reports and meeting agendas 
• Track production of department and communicate to management (When Assistant Lab Manager is not available). 
• Develop and implement work instructions in accordance with Quality System 
• Ensure timely follow-up to commitments  
• Responsible for purchasing and negotiating best prices with vendors (When Assistant Lab Manager is not available). 
• Handles customer complaints  
• Additional duties as required by management 

Qualifications & Requirements  

• Wearing of personal protective equipment as required 
• Work in a laboratory, testing environment with potential exposure to petroleum products, fumes, odors, mists and dusts 
• Lift or move up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis 
• Ability to distinguish colors and odors 
• Ability to understand testing procedures and results 
• Ability to work in a team environment 
• Ability to work under pressure and deadlines  
• Detail oriented and ability to multi-task 
• Strong technical aptitude and displayed ability to grasp a general knowledge of multiple disciplines and technologies 
• Strong analytical capabilities 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills 
• Displayed potential to grasp strategic concepts and strategy development skills 
• Proficient with computers and standard programs 
• BS/BA Degree, plus other relevant certifications 
• Experience or understanding of lubrication fundamentals and metallurgy 
• 5+ years leadership experience 

Additional Skills  

• Hazmat training 
• OSHA training 
• RCRA training 
• Methylene Chloride Training 
• Contingency Plan Training  
• POLARIS Quality System Training 
• Internal Auditor Training 

Safety Requirements

• OSHA laws require the use of the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when performing work duties that have the potential of risk to your health or
  safety. At POLARIS Laboratories, when going through the Laboratory it is required that you wear eye protection. 
• Team members will be trained in the proper use and care of assigned PPE. POLARIS Laboratories provides the required PPE. It is your responsibility to report
  defective, damaged or lost PPE, or equipment that does not fit properly, to your Manager. 
• To ensure safety throughout the facility, all employees are required to maintain up to date HAZMAT, OSHA, RCRA, Methylene Chloride, and General Laboratory
  Safety training as defined within the POLARIS Quality System.