Director of Labs

About the Role

The Director of Labs oversees core functions including equipment troubleshooting, maintenance, and the development, documentation, and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all extraction lab processes. This position collaborates with local Directors of Operations and Lab Managers to provide training, ensure SOP adherence, and work with the National VP of Manufacturing on research and development related to product, process, and instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Carries out routine tasks accurately and strictly following SOPs.
• Develops, audits, and improves lab SOPs.
• Leads and directs local Lab Managers in the proper use and maintenance of lab equipment, ensuring strict adherence to SOPs and best practices.
• Audits and interprets processing data from local lab operations and adjusts extraction parameters and practices accordingly.
• Engages with a Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure SOPs are properly documented, controlled, and audited on regular cycles.
• Coordinates with VP of Manufacturing to establish and monitor efficiencies and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for local labs.
• Engages with FIIX, a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), to ensure maintenance tasks are developed, assigned, and executed.
• Coordinates with local Directors of Operations to ensure lab teams maintain rigorous logs for maintenance and repairs.
• Provides remote and in-person assistance for technical issues local lab teams cannot resolve independently.
• Ensures each site receives an in-person visit at least once every 12 weeks to audit systems and processes.
• Collaborates with other Department Leaders to improve existing processes, develop new processes, and support local lab teams.
• Monitors industry best practices to adjust lab processes and instrumentation, proposing adjustments or acquisitions as needed.
• Works with VP of Manufacturing to establish and maintain vendor relationships for sourcing instruments, materials, and resources.
• Coordinates with VP of Manufacturing on research and development tasks related to process, product, and instrument validation.
• Designs, builds, and commissions new extraction and refinement operations during market expansion.
• Understands and complies with all applicable laws regarding the creation and handling of marijuana products.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Ability to use standard office equipment, computers, and software (word processing, database management like BioTrack and Metrc, spreadsheets, and email).
• Understanding of or ability to learn how to operate a CMMS and QMS.
• Problem-solving skills to evaluate data and select corrective actions.
• Effective conflict management strategies to mitigate team conflicts.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and management.
• Ability to guide and direct reports in performing their duties.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Understanding of state laws governing legal medical marijuana programs.
• 4-year degree required; field directly applicable to cannabis extraction preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience managing a cannabis manufacturing setting.
• Minimum of 4 years’ general management experience.
• Ability to travel 50%, up to 75% as needed.
• Understanding of lab or manufacturing tasks.
• Ability to work independently, manage projects, and meet deadlines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Seven to nine years of lab operation experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to carry up to 40 lbs.
• Ability to wear personal protective gear correctly.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to perform fine motor functions.
• Lifting, standing, sitting, walking, bending, reaching, push/pull, repetitive hand use, grasping, and visual activity.
• Exposure to limited hazardous chemicals.