Quality Lab Supervisor
About the role
The Quality Laboratory Supervisor leads day-to-day laboratory operations and supports quality and process control initiatives within a manufacturing environment. This role supervises laboratory personnel, manages analytical testing programs, oversees process chemistry, and ensures that product quality standards are consistently met. Acting as a key technical resource for both laboratory and production teams, the supervisor uses analytical data to evaluate process performance, make chemical adjustments to manufacturing systems, and drive continuous improvement. The position offers a hands-on laboratory opportunity with the chance to learn from a technical leader, take ownership of a brand-new lab in a new facility, and grow into a future laboratory manager role.
Responsibilities
- Supervise, train, and develop laboratory technicians and quality personnel to ensure high performance and adherence to quality standards.
- Manage daily laboratory operations, including testing schedules, sample prioritization, and timely reporting of analytical results.
- Perform and oversee chemical analysis of process solutions, production baths, wastewater systems, and raw materials to support manufacturing quality and process control.
- Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instrumentation to ensure accurate and reliable analytical data.
- Review and interpret laboratory results, translating analytical data into clear, actionable recommendations for process improvements and chemical adjustments.
- Monitor production chemistry and make chemical additions or process adjustments to maintain operating parameters within defined specifications.
- Partner closely with production personnel to optimize line performance, plating quality, bath chemistry, and overall process stability.
- Review process trends and quality metrics, identifying deviations and implementing corrective actions when results fall outside established limits.
- Investigate quality concerns, customer complaints, and process deviations using structured root cause analysis methodologies, and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
- Maintain accurate laboratory equipment calibration records, standard operating procedures, and related documentation to support audit readiness and compliance.
- Ensure compliance with internal quality standards, environmental requirements, and applicable safety regulations in all laboratory and production support activities.
- Support internal audits, customer audits, and continuous improvement initiatives by providing data, documentation, and technical insight.
- Monitor key process and quality performance indicators and prepare clear, concise reports for leadership on laboratory performance and process health.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance quality management systems and strengthen overall quality assurance and quality control practices.
Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related scientific field.
- At least 3 years of experience in a manufacturing laboratory, quality laboratory, or industrial chemical environment.
- Previous supervisory, lead, or management experience overseeing laboratory or quality personnel.
- Hands-on experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instrumentation.
- Strong knowledge of analytical testing methods, wet chemistry techniques, and process control principles.
- Demonstrated experience evaluating chemical process data and implementing process adjustments based on analytical results.
- Excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities in a technical manufacturing setting.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for documenting results, preparing reports, and collaborating with production teams.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and quality documentation systems.
- Solid understanding of quality assurance, quality control, and quality management system concepts.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience supporting metal finishing, electroplating, coatings, surface treatment, specialty chemical, or chemical manufacturing operations.
- Experience making chemical additions and process corrections to manufacturing systems based on laboratory analysis and process data.
- Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC), Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Familiarity with ISO 9001, IATF, or similar quality management systems and audit requirements.
- Experience with wastewater treatment operations and environmental compliance in a manufacturing environment.
- Supporting automotive, industrial manufacturing, or high-volume production operations.
- Strong interest in professional growth, with the potential to advance into a laboratory manager role.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with technical directors and production leaders in a fast-paced environment.
Work Environment
This role operates in a combination of laboratory and production floor settings, providing both hands-on analytical work and direct interaction with manufacturing processes. The Quality Laboratory Supervisor frequently collaborates with manufacturing personnel and works around industrial machinery and process equipment. The environment includes regular exposure to chemicals and typical manufacturing operations, with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) required at all times to ensure safety. The position involves standing, walking, climbing stairs, and occasionally lifting up to 40 pounds. The lab and facility are being newly built, offering a modern workspace and the opportunity to help shape laboratory practices and culture in a growing operation.
Pay
- $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Professional development and advancement opportunities
- Stable and growing manufacturing environment
Schedule
- This is a fully onsite position in Auburn, IN.