Laboratory Manager

Microbiology Lab Manager Responsible for providing support and/or oversight in the Manufacturing areas as relates to systems controls, new product introductions, process improvements, data collection and reports, and root cause/corrective action investigations. In this role, the individual will be required to interact and communicate extensively with both division and plant support personnel (Engineering, PR&D, Maintenance, QA) to assure that projects and/or issues are addressed with little-to-no impact to operations productivity. What You’ll DoAs the Microbiology Lead, you will play a critical role in ensuring the quality, safety, and compliance of our products and processes. You will oversee all microbiological testing, drive continuous improvement in laboratory operations, and serve as the primary technical expert for the site. Perform and oversee microbiological testing for ingredients, in-process materials, finished products, and environmental/utility samples.Lead corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities related to microbiological non-conformities.Develop, implement, and maintain laboratory methods, documentation, and best practices.Identify and execute continuous improvement opportunities to enhance lab efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.Manage the department budget and drive cost-improvement initiatives related to lab operations and testing.Serve as the plant’s microbiology subject-matter expert and technical liaison across business units.Represent the microbiology function during external regulatory and quality audits.Oversee the internal microbiology audit program, including annual audit execution.Review global corrective actions and determine site-specific requirements.Ensure high product quality levels while supporting operational efficiency.Maintain compliance with GMPs, FDA regulations, company policies, and established procedures.Build, develop, and retain a diverse, high-performing lab team with clear goal-setting, coaching, and ongoing feedback.Foster a safe, professional, and collaborative work environment.Partner effectively with employees, customers, contractors, and vendors to support site and business objectives. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology, Bacteriology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or other technical degreeMinimum 10 years of experience in nutrition, food, or allied industryMinimum 5 years: Supervisory managementMinimum 5 years: Working in a regulated FDA/GMP environment