Laboratory Manager

Company Description

Circular Plastics Australia part of the PACT Group is creating a truly circular economy by giving billions of used plastic bottles and containers a new life. Our facilities will enable plastic waste to be recycled locally and made into new bottles and packaging, rather than ending up in landfills.

Job Description

About this opportunity

This role oversees laboratory operations, coordinates training, supports production inline testing and data reporting, maintains and oversees laboratory data, and drives continuous improvement initiatives. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and a dedication to environmental sustainability.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• Oversee all aspects of laboratory operations, including quality control testing, data analysis, equipment maintenance, and sample management.
• Ensure the implementation and adherence to rigorous quality control standards and procedures.
• Coordinate data collection, analysis, and reporting activities. Maintain and oversee laboratory data, identify trends, deviations, and potential quality issues.
• Ensure the proper maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Oversee the proper collection, labelling, and storage of samples for testing and retention purposes.
• Coordinate and conduct training programs for laboratory staff on testing methods, equipment operation, safety procedures, and quality control protocols.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, quality control, and management, to address quality issues, implement process improvements, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Your skills and experience

To be successful in this role, you’ll have:

• Proven experience in a laboratory management or leadership role, preferably in a plastics or recycling environment.
• In-depth knowledge of laboratory testing methods and equipment, including spectrophotometers, rheometers, and mechanical testing machines.
• Experience with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and quality management systems.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
• Commitment to safety, environmental sustainability, and quality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field is preferred. Significant relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.