Director Laboratory Operations

Job Description

Director, Laboratory Operations – Modesto, CA

Overview

In this role the Director Laboratory Operations will oversee the daily operations of a microbiological laboratory, ensuring the highest standards of testing accuracy, compliance, and customer service. As a key on-site lead, the candidate should provide scientific leadership with strong operational and business acumen. The Lab Director is responsible for quality, strong customer focus, team leadership, financial & operational performance, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 3-6 supervisors and oversee potential 40-50 total staff within the lab.
• Oversee day-to-day chemical and micro-testing lab activities to meet performance goals for quality, productivity and turnaround time.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 17025 and corporate quality management standards and maintain a clean, safe, and organized lab environment.
• Supervise staff in monitoring lab equipment condition and manage maintenance/replacement needs.
• Meet and exceed client expectations for turnaround time and service delivery.
• Promote employee engagement, retention, and cross-training to build a flexible, skilled team.
• Manage the lab’s P&L and align operational decisions with budget expectations.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities across labor, supplies, and services.
• Manage vendor relationships to ensure value and efficiency.
• Contribute to cross-lab best practice sharing, overflow testing, and pilot projects.
• Maintain a strong presence on the floor to reinforce performance standards and provide real-time feedback.
• Oversee client-specific and non-routine testing projects as needed.

Education and Work Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Food Technology, or related field required; Master’s degree a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience leading front line operations, including leading supervisors of hourly/non/exempt teams.
• experience in third party laboratory testing or manufacturing environments strongly , within (food & beverage).

Qualifications

• Proven success in managing operations, financials, and teams to measurable outcomes.
• Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Skilled in interpreting technical, regulatory, and business documentation