Lab Manager

Summary

Seeking a Lab Manager for a direct hire opportunity with our growing client, a trusted supplier of raw materials to the pharmaceutical and food & beverage industries, in Kentwood, MI. This role will manage daily technical and quality assurance operations while providing hands-on laboratory management and customer-facing technical support. This role combines immediate technical execution with management responsibilities, with opportunity to grow into strategic leadership as the company expands. The ideal candidate will coordinate laboratory operations, quality assurance, customer support, and cross-functional collaboration.

Laboratory Operations & Technical Support

• Provide technical support to sales team on product specifications and applications
• Lead customer sample preparation and technical presentations
• Manage laboratory equipment, calibration, maintenance schedules, and vendor relationships
• Support product formulation and custom ingredient development
• Schedule and prioritize testing activities and sample processing
• Manage current lab staff and processes (hiring additional staff as lab grows)

Quality Assurance & Documentation

• Develop and document testing methods, quality control procedures, and raw material standards
• Create comprehensive technical documentation system for regulatory compliance and product quality
• Establish and enforce quality standards for testing materials and products
• Implement in-process product inspection standards
• Foster food safety culture and ensure compliance with GMP and industry regulations

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Serve as liaison between technical operations and other departments
• Collaborate with procurement on supplier communications, material approvals, and supplier qualifications
• Manage cross-departmental project timelines and communication

Professional Development

• Maintain professional knowledge through continuing education and industry involvement
• Other related duties as assigned to support company growth

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Biology, or related scientific field
• 5+ years of experience in food/ingredient laboratory environment
• Previous pharmaceutical or nutraceutical industry experience preferred
• Knowledge of analytical instrumentation and testing methodologies
• Understanding of FDA regulations, GMP, and food safety requirements
• Strong documentation and SOP development skills
• Leadership experience managing technical staff

Benefits

• Variety of affordable benefit options (Medical, Dental, Vision, etc.)
• Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
• 401(k)
• Growing company with a family feel