Lab Coordinator

About the role

The Site Laboratory Coordinator leads and supports production teams daily to ensure accuracy and adherence to Mars Quality and Food Safety systems. This role ensures all quality checks are performed throughout the receiving and production process, verifying that ingredients and products meet all Quality Specifications while complying with Site Lab Standards, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP), and hygiene requirements.

The coordinator supervises all operational activities at the site laboratory, including collecting, labeling, analyzing, and recording results related to raw materials, intermediate products, finished product, packaging materials, and other samples. They also maintain working knowledge of microbiological sampling programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead site lab technicians in conducting physical and chemical tests, including pipettes, pH meters, water activity meters, NIR, Lateral Flow Devices, and ELISA methods.
• Interpret analytical method procedures and safety instructions using standard chemistry terms and measures.
• Deploy and implement new methods (Mars-approved) as required by the Regional Q&FS Testing Manager.
• Maintain all records of analytical testing and quality control lab documentation, including tracking, trend analysis, and other Quality Control responsibilities.
• Inform the Q&FS Manager and Line Manager of quality deviations for controls and products according to Mars internal procedures.
• Clean and maintain lab equipment, including calibration, troubleshooting, and problem diagnosis at the first level.
• Supervise and operate sampling of raw materials from bulk trucks, big bags, and totes.
• Coordinate activities with MGS Regional Labs or external labs for sample preparation and delivery.
• Interpret data from routine analysis of raw materials to validate compliance with specifications.
• Ensure lab compliance with the quality management system and Site Lab Standard through training, documentation, quality records, and audits.
• Manage all CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Actions) related to site lab activities.
• Train and instruct lab technicians.
• Ensure lab participation in ring trials and proficiency testing programs.
• Participate in the Regional site lab community under the governance of Regional Q&FS testing and conformance.
• Report quarterly metrics to MGS.
• Liaise with MGS Site Lab Support scientists on compliance and root cause analysis.
• Perform and train on routine calculations pertaining to analytical chemistry (e.g., dilution, concentration, test results).

Requirements

• 2-year (preferably 4-year) degree in a Science field.
• 3 to 5 years of commensurate experience in a QC lab or GMP manufacturing operations.
• Knowledge and understanding of Good Laboratory Practices and Quality Management Systems.
• 1-3 years of experience in a quality laboratory function.
• Experience and knowledge of basic laboratory operations such as weighing, titrating, and preparing volumetric solutions.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Benefits

• Work with diverse and talented associates guided by The Five Principles.
• Join a purpose-driven company focused on building the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Strong focus on learning and development, including access to Mars University.
• Industry-competitive salary and benefits package, including a company bonus.