Environmental Lab Manager

We're seeking a highly organized, and action-oriented Lab Manager to lead operations at our growing environmental laboratory. The ideal candidate is a confident, hands-on leader who thrives on building structure, implementing processes, and driving initiatives from concept to completion. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for someone who's ready to shape the future of an established lab with a strong reputation and a clear path for continued growth.

Education & Experience:

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, or related field. 5-10 years of experience in environmental laboratory operations, including 2-3+ years in a management or leadership role . In-depth understanding of environmental regulations, including the EPA Safe Drinking Water Act, 40 CFR , state-specific environmental rules, and

NELAC/ISO 17025

standards.

Key Skills & Competencies:

Leadership & Team Development :

Ability to bring clarity, structure, and accountability to daily operations while building a collaborative and motivated team.

Initiative & Execution :

Proactive mindset with a track record of driving continuous improvement and seeing projects through to completion.

Staff Management :

Experience hiring, mentoring, and developing staff; skilled in setting clear expectations and leading with a steady hand.

Operational Oversight :

Strong skills in resource planning, scheduling, budgeting, and process optimization.

Regulatory Compliance :

Deep knowledge of environmental regulations and lab standards, with experience maintaining certifications (NELAC, etc.).

Technical Proficiency :

Familiar with instruments such as

ICP/MS, BOD

analyzers, GC/MS, Discrete Analyzers , etc.

Data & Systems Management :

Comfortable with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for workflow tracking and reporting.

Health & Safety Compliance :

Ensures a safe and compliant work environment, including proper waste handling and staff training.

Continuous Improvement Mindset :

Open to innovation and efficiency, with a focus on quality, service, and long-term scalability.

Responsibilities:

Lead Daily Lab Operations :

Oversee sample processing, testing schedules, and lab workflow to ensure timely and accurate results.

Ensure Compliance & Accreditation :

Maintain adherence to all relevant federal, state, and industry regulations; support lab audits and sustain certifications.

Manage Budgets & Resources :

Monitor expenditures, plan staffing needs, and maintain efficient use of equipment and supplies.

Train & Develop Staff :

Recruit, onboard, and coach employees; promote a strong learning culture with an emphasis on continuous improvement.

Oversee QA/QC Programs :

Monitor lab performance metrics and implement quality protocols and corrective actions as needed.

Maintain Health & Safety Standards :

Lead safety programs, manage risk assessments, and uphold environmental compliance.

Oversee Equipment & Supplies :

Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of instruments, and manage procurement of lab materials.

Support Strategic Growth :

Contribute to long-term planning, including service expansion, automation, and technical upgrades. This is a leadership role with real ownership and the chance to make a lasting impact. If you're passionate about lab science and operations, and you're ready to bring structure, direction, and innovation to a growing team—we'd love to hear from you.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$65,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Schedule:

Day shift Application Question(s): How familiar are you with

NELAC/ISO 17025

standards? Can you share an example of a project or process improvement you led from start to finish? This role requires someone who is assertive and proactive in creating structure and driving changes with a small team of 5-6 employees. How comfortable are you with stepping into a leadership role that requires this level of ownership?

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

Environmental Laboratory:

5 years (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person