Position Summary

Ensure all equipment in the laboratory are functional and in calibration. Perform maintenance, repairs and calibrations on laboratory equipment. Write and review SOPs, methods, work instructions and other documents related to the analytical laboratory. Responsible for analytical method development and validation as well as instrument qualifications. Oversees laboratory workload distribution and testing methods. Oversee activities of the Assistant Chemists, Quality Analysts and Supervisors.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and technical support to the Analytical Lab Assistant Chemists, Quality Analysts, and Supervisors.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversee quality testing in the analytical services laboratory.
• Calibrate, maintain and repair analytical instruments which may include GCs, HPLCs, ICs, density meters, combustion analyzers, osmometers, viscometers, spectrophotometers and other specialized equipment in the labs. Instrument repairs require competence in replacement of mechanical and electrical components.
• Install, qualify, and calibrate new lab equipment. This includes writing the protocol and final report.
• Interpret data including chromatograms, spectra and instrument/method suitability.
• Develop, write, review, revise, and validate analytical methods and work instructions.
• Research and recommend new or updated equipment, technology or test methodologies.
• Oversee sensory evaluation of product, perform training, maintain appropriate lab environment for sensory.
• May on occasion cover for positions that require routine testing, approvals and release of finished products. This includes sensory evaluations such as odor, taste, color, clarity and appearance.
• Work with QA on review of specifications, provide guidance on testing and assist with troubleshooting of customer issues.
• Liaise with colleagues from other departments (including production, sales, R&D).
• Provide assistance to the facility with troubleshooting process and/or food safety issues.
• Train employees on new or revised methods and work instructions as well as equipment operation.
• Follow safe lab practices and take an active part in implementing lab safety rules and ensure that they are followed.
• Other duties as directed.

Education

• Minimum Bachelors Degree in a Science related discipline, preferably Chemistry or Biology.

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a laboratory testing environment required.
• Experience with analytical laboratory instrumentation such as chromatography equipment, spectrophotometers, Karl Fischer coulometric titrators, density meters, combustion analyzers, and viscosity analyzers strongly desired.
• Prior leadership experience is a plus.
• General knowledge of good laboratory practices and ISO 17025 standard is required.
• Minimum Bachelors Degree in a Science related discipline, preferably Chemistry or Biology.
• Positive attitude and ability to lead and motivate others.
• Ability to prioritize and work independently with little supervision.
• Proven communication (written and verbal), organizational, time management, math, and computer skills.
• Ability to pay attention to details.

Travel

• Occasional for offsite job related training or technical conferences.

Other

• This position primarily works day shift, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday with GPC recognized holidays off. Occasional adjustment of hours may be needed based on the needs of the business.
• Good visual acuity needed for color and appearance evaluations of reagents and products. Regular attendance is required.