Laboratory Manager - Balchem Corporation

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Balchem Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets specialty ingredients that improve and enhance the health and well-being of life on the planet, providing state-of-the-art solutions and the finest quality products for a range of industries worldwide. Our corporate headquarters is located in Montvale, New Jersey and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the US and Europe. Founded in 1967, Balchem is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ – “BCPC”) with annual revenues over $900 million and a market cap exceeding $4.0 billion. The company consists of three business segments: Human Nutrition & Health; Animal Nutrition & Health; and Specialty Products. Balchem employs over 1,400 people worldwide who are engaged in diverse activities, committed to developing the company into global market leadership positions. To learn more about our dynamic, stable and growing company, visit www.balchem.com.

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Quality Lab Manager with a background in microbiology and analytical chemistry to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a minimum bachelor's degree in a related field, substantial experience in quality control laboratory management, ISO 17025 accreditation process, previous professional lab management experience, and familiarity with Indicative organisms testing, Pathogen Testing, and other advanced analytical techniques.

As a Quality Lab Manager at Ogden Central Lab (Balchem Corp.), you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of our quality control laboratory. You will play a critical role in ensuring the quality and safety of our products through effective management of microbiological and analytical chemistry testing processes. The individual will derive enjoyment from taking on the challenge of leading a team in a dynamic and fast-paced environment and will have the capability to assist the team in delivering accurate and timely results amid situations with competing priorities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Laboratory Management:

• Supervise and lead a team of Microbiologists and QA analysts, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to quality standards.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, materials, and personnel, to optimize efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all laboratory processes

Quality Control:

• Oversee microbiological and analytical chemistry testing activities to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Conduct routine quality checks and audits to verify accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) based on quality discrepancies, ensuring continuous improvement in processes and results.

Advanced Microbial and Analytical Techniques:

• Ensure thorough understanding and application of microbiological testing protocols for pathogen detection, including advanced techniques for identifying bacterial, viral, and fungal contaminants.
• Oversee and validate indicative testing methods for environmental monitoring and quality assurance, ensuring accurate and reliable results in compliance with ISO 17025 standards.
• Utilize expertise in HPLC, GC-MS, Moisture Testing, ID Testing, , and other advanced analytical techniques to analyze and interpret complex data.
• Collaborate with the team to troubleshoot instrument issues and optimize methods for accurate and efficient testing.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Analyze laboratory data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive reports for management review.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate quality metrics, trends, and areas for improvement.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Stay updated on relevant regulations and standards in the industry, ensuring the laboratory's compliance with local, national, and international requirements, including ISO 17025.
• Prepare and participate in regulatory inspections, Audits, Proficiency testing, addressing any compliance issues promptly and effectively.

Training and Development:

• Provide training and mentorship to laboratory staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development.
• Encourage teamwork, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among team members.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Microbiology, Analytical Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in a quality control laboratory, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role managing a team of laboratory professionals, specializing in microbiology and analytical chemistry.
• ISO 17025 certification preferred.
• Previous professional lab management experience is a plus.
• Strong understanding of laboratory testing methods, instrumentation, and data analysis techniques.
• Excellent knowledge of relevant regulations, standards, and industry best practices.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, Project Management, and leadership skills.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and precision in all tasks.

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Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.