Inorganics Laboratory Manager

About the Position:

The Inorganics Manager is responsible for the leadership, operational performance, and continuous improvement of the Wet Chemistry and Metals departments. This role ensures efficient laboratory operations, high-quality analytical results, regulatory compliance, and strong team development.

The Inorganics Manager partners closely with the Laboratory Director and cross-functional teams to enhance productivity, maintain quality standards, and drive operational excellence.

Specific Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Lead day-to-day operations of Wet Chemistry and Metals departments to meet production, quality, and turnaround targets
• Optimize workflow, staffing, and resource allocation to maximize efficiency and minimize waste
• Identify and implement process improvements, including new technologies, instrumentation, and methodologies
• Monitor and improve turnaround times while ensuring adherence to method holding times

People Management & Development

• Supervise, coach, and develop Team Leads and laboratory staff
• Address employee performance, engagement, and morale proactively
• Partner with leadership and HR on workforce planning, staffing needs, and disciplinary actions
• Foster a high-performance, accountable, and safety-first culture

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all work complies with ALS Quality Management System, SOPs, and regulatory requirements
• Partner with QA to maintain and update methods, SOPs, and documentation
• Review QA/QC data, investigate deviations, and implement corrective actions
• Prepare for and respond to internal and external audits

Technical Oversight

• Maintain working knowledge of analytical methods and instrumentation within the departments
• Monitor instrument performance and ensure timely calibration, maintenance, and repair
• Escalate technical or quality issues affecting data integrity or production

Client & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless workflow and customer satisfaction
• Support client needs through timely delivery of high-quality results
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across the laboratory

Safety & Compliance

• Promote and enforce all health, safety, and environmental policies
• Ensure safe laboratory practices and proper handling of chemicals and equipment

Continuous Improvement

• Drive initiatives to improve productivity, reduce waste (solvents, consumables), and minimize rework
• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) for department performance

Other Duties

• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by leadership

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific field
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced laboratory environment
• Experience working within a quality-driven laboratory (e.g., ISO, NELAC, EPA methods)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and laboratory systems (LIMS preferred)

Preferred Qualifications:

• 10+ years of laboratory experience
• 5+ years of supervisory or management experience
• Experience in environmental or analytical testing laboratories
• Strong knowledge of wet chemistry and metals analysis techniques

Preferred Qualifications:

• Leadership and team development
• Operational efficiency and problem-solving
• Quality and compliance focus
• Decision-making under pressure
• Continuous improvement mindset

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. (with assistance when appropriate)
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform laboratory activities throughout the workday
• Manual dexterity for operating instruments and equipment
• Ability to communicate clearly with team members and clients

Why ALS?

We invest in our people and provide opportunities for growth and development. Our benefits include:

• Competitive compensation with structured increases
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• Retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off and additional service-based vacation days
• Education and career development support
• Employee wellness and assistance programs

Equal Opportunity

ALS is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Working at ALS

The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.

Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence. 

At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us. 

We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

Everyone Matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, military or veteran status, gender, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information and any other characteristics protected by the law. We invite resumes from all interested parties, including women, members of minority groups, and persons living with disabilities.  

ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request. 

Eligibility

To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.

How to apply

Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.