Lab Manager

The primary function of the Laboratory Manager is to lead the daily operations of the laboratory team oversee compliance manage customer interactions and ensure the effective compliant acceptance of non-hazardous liquid waste streams at our Jacksonville Recycle Plant. As the gatekeeper for the plant the Laboratory Manager performs critical analysis and oversight guiding the intake process by using fingerprint testing and instrumentation to evaluate waste compatibility under regulatory standards and facility permit guidelines.

This position is ideal for a scientifically skilled and operationally savvy leader who thrives in a fast-paced compliance-driven environment and wants to help shape the future of environmental processing.

Essential Functions:

Laboratory Operations & Analysis

• Operate the lab safely in full compliance with local state and federal regulations

• Apply and maintain knowledge of all EPA-approved testing methods

• Perform or oversee wet bench chemistry for waste stream analysis

• Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation including:

  • Flash Point Tester

  • Hach DR2004 Spectrophotometer

  • COD Testing

  • ICP Metal Testing (instruments may vary based on plant needs)

• Ensure all measurement probes and lab equipment are calibrated and functioning properly

Compliance & Quality Control

• Uphold all elements of the Waste Acceptance Plan and internal SOPs

• Conduct chemical treatment testing and provide direction to plant operators before during and after each treatment batch

• Monitor compliance standards and collaborate directly with regulatory agencies and labs to ensure best practices

• Implement and maintain Continuous Improvement practices to stay ahead of industry and regulatory standards

• Identify and address key treatment process defects particularly in DAF Filter Press and Solidification systems

• Recommend and apply in-process treatment improvements to maintain peak compliance performance

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Reporting

• Provide final approval on customer waste profiles coordinating with Sales

• Communicate directly with brokers/customers regarding waste stream approvals upcharges and COD-related billing

• Participate in customer site visits with Sales or Division Manager to evaluate on-site waste

• Maintain direct communication with the Plant Manager providing lab performance updates and compliance reporting

Inventory Scheduling & Documentation

• Order all lab supplies and coordinate plant PPE and safety supply needs

• Schedule lab shifts and ensure appropriate coverage across all shifts (must be able to flex shifts when needed)

• Assist lab team in entering accurate work orders into the waste tracking system

• Maintain documentation reports and internal communications in an organized and compliant manner

Leadership & Strategic Development

• Lead mentor and train laboratory staff

• Identify and integrate best practices into standard lab and plant operating procedures

• Foster a culture of compliance professionalism and continuous development across the lab team

Minimum Specifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Biology Chemistry or related discipline

• Training in Waste Stream or Wastewater Management preferred

Experience & Skills:

• Minimum 3 years of laboratory management experience

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities

• Familiarity with regulatory reporting and compliance documentation

• High attention to detail in laboratory safety and testing standards

• Skilled in Microsoft Office (Word Excel required; Access PowerPoint Outlook a plus)

• Clear professional communication with regulatory bodies internal teams and external customers

Working Environment:

• Indoor/outdoor plant environment; exposure to hot cold or odorous conditions

• Ability to lift light loads climb and sit or stand for extended periods

Evaluation Period & Advancement Opportunity

This role includes a 90-day introductory period during which your performance leadership and technical skillset will be evaluated. Based on the outcome of this evaluation you may be considered for a pay increase and/or promotional opportunity subject to business needs and demonstrated performance.

This description outlines the core functions and expectations of the Laboratory Manager role but does not imply these are the only duties to be performed. Other tasks may be assigned based on operational need. Liquid Environmental Solutions maintains an at-will employment relationship.

Required Experience:

Manager