Manager- Lab

Since 1915, Walman Optical has served thousands of independent eye care professionals providing solutions for all of their optical needs. Our experienced and knowledgeable team helps businesses grow while providing quality eyewear and unmatched service for an exceptional patient experience. With us, you’ll bring our most advanced technology and innovative products to our partners. As a division of Walman, our collective mission is to enrich the lives of our customers, employees and the communities we serve through better vision. Walman is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry.

About the role

The Lab Manager oversees all operations and people management aspects of a lab. The scope of the role may vary based on factors such as volume, number of employees, and the type of lab. The volume of jobs per day is approximately 400 for Proximity labs. The Lab Manager leads strategy and operations to meet safety, quality, production, maintenance, and people management goals. They are accountable for lab performance, ensuring it aligns with company standards. Responsibilities include driving efficiency, developing high-performing teams, leading change, and fostering continuous improvement. The Lab Manager also collaborates with senior leadership and other teams to drive execution and enhance performance.

Responsibilities

• Enforces safety policies, ensuring compliance with internal and external regulations (e.g., EH&S, EPA, OSHA).
• Leads efforts to improve operational efficiency through financial management, structure, processes, quality, resource allocation, change management, and expense control.
• Analyzes data and trends to develop strategies for achieving goals.
• Implements strategies and best practices in operations and people management.
• Communicates strategy to engage and motivate employees.
• Sets clear performance objectives aligned with market and lab strategy for team members.
• Monitors production and quality progress through data analysis and performance review.
• Drives metric execution through action plans and accountability.
• Collaborates with leadership to report progress and secure necessary resources.
• Promotes a positive work environment and ensures alignment with company values.
• Manages people processes such as hiring, training, performance management, and problem resolution.
• Develops leadership capabilities through talent management, performance reviews, and succession planning.
• Partners with engineering and maintenance on production and quality improvements.
• Leads and participates in project teams.

Requirements

• High School diploma/G.E.D.
• 10+ years of experience with leading others.
• 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing or related environment.
• Demonstrated skills and abilities, including:
  • Resolves conflict in a timely and productive manner
  • Makes effective decisions to solve problems
  • Ability to manage expenses and budgets
  • Collaborates with and influences others to achieve expected results
  • Self-motivated with a high sense of urgency, resourcefulness, and adaptability
• Basic computer skills and experience with MS Office; ability to learn other systems (SAP).
• Must be able to travel as needed to meet the needs of the lab operations.
• Experience in a very high-volume environment with complex technical processes.
• Proven track record of individual accomplishment, contribution, and team-based success.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field.
• Previous experience leading process improvement initiatives within a production environment utilizing Lean Manufacturing and 6 Sigma tools and processes.

Pay

Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills, and local minimum wage requirements. The pay range for this role starts at $95,000. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan.

Benefits

• Health care
• Retirement savings
• Paid time off/vacation
• Various employee discounts