Quality Lab Lead

About the role

The Quality Lab Lead oversees the daily operations of the laboratory, directing lab technicians while also performing laboratory tests and ensuring adherence to quality and food safety standards. The role helps maintain food product safety and quality, resolves issues and leads quality continuous improvement efforts, while keeping the laboratory team trained, motivated and supported.

Key responsibilities

• Oversight of daily laboratory activities, ensuring accurate and timely testing of raw materials, in-process products and finished products.
• Perform microbiological, chemical and physical tests, interpreting and documenting results according to SOPs.
• Train and mentor lab technicians on procedures, equipment calibration and food safety protocols.
• Conduct root cause analysis on non-conforming products and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Ensure equipment is calibrated and maintained, and run internal audit reviews in line with GLP and GMP.
• Maintain testing records and documentation, and manage lab inventory.
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to troubleshoot issues and optimize processes.
• Participate in regulatory and third-party audits, and help develop new testing procedures and validations.
• Act as the point of contact for escalated issues and support quality continuous improvement.
• Follow safety protocols, stop unsafe acts and report hazards.

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology or a related field preferred.
• At least 3 years of laboratory experience, preferably in food manufacturing or quality control.
• Supervisory or leadership experience preferred; additional certifications such as SQF, GMP, GLP or HACCP preferred.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, problem-solving and communication skills, attention to detail and basic math skills.
• Intermediate computer skills with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word and Outlook.

What we offer

• Starting wage of $28.90 per hour, with two pay increases within a year, up to $1.00.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, short- and long-term disability insurance.
• 401(k) with up to 7% company contribution.
• PTO from day 1, paid holidays and 2 floating holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, uniform program and shoe allowance.