Job Description

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing all three functional FSQA laboratory operations to ensure the quality safety and regulatory compliance of all manufactured products. This role involves managing microbiological analytical and chemical testing, supervising lab personnel, maintaining compliance with industry regulations and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. The lab manager will work closely with Operations, quality assurance and o teams tother cross functional groups to uphold Westrock food safety and quality standards
Job Duties:

• Oversee daily lab testing of all raw material, in-process and finished products in alignment with Westrock Coffee QMS procedures and Food Safety and Regulatory standards.
• Ensures compliance with standardized testing methods for all the different microbiological, analytical and chemical testing that will be done in the lab
• Develop and support new methods if needed when introducing new products in the facility
• Manage and develop the laboratory team, ensuring effective training, proficiency training and performance.
• Optimize QC laboratory operations, focusing on efficiency and analytical accuracy
• Establish statical sampling plans for raw materials, packaging, and finished products when needed
• Represent the lab, testing methods and data analysis to both internal and external customers
• Analyze and interpret lab results to identify trends and potential quality issues. Provide quality lab data and trend analysis to support continuous improvement in FSQA operations.
• Represent lab data and KPI's during periodic QA and Compliance meetings
• Oversee procurement and inventory of lab supplies and ensure correct record keeping. Manage outside lab sampling and support customer driven outside lab sampling
• Help in developing verification and validation methodologies and SOPs to ensure process integrity and compliance.
• Implement and maintain a lab system based on Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), including performance KPIs.
• Support cross-functional collaboration by providing technical expertise in quality issue resolution and risk analysis.
• Support cross-functional collaboration by providing technical expertise in development and support on programs such as EMP, Allergen verification etc.
• Support cross-functional collaboration by providing technical expertise during Plant or Customer driven LPRs, CQVs, audits etc.
• Support audit driven initiatives by maintaining all documentation and record keeping for lab-based processes like inventory management, calibration program, training and proficiency etc.

Qualifications
Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Science or relevant laboratory experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory analysis, with expertise in microbiology.
• Training in HACCP, SQF, and auditing functions preferred.
• Management experience preferred.
• Familiarity with the dairy and beverage industry is a plus.
• Proactive, responsible, and professional approach to work.
• Proven ability to lead and collaborate within a team environment.
• Adaptability to shifting priorities and a dynamic work environment.
• Strong organizational skills with meticulous record-keeping.
• Ability to work independently while following direction.
• Skilled in prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines

Equal Opportunity Employer / Vets / Disabled