Laboratory Lead (Zona Franca, Rionegro, Antioquia, Colombia)
Position Summary:
The Laboratory Lead is responsible for assisting in the daily operations of the laboratory, ensuring efficient workflow, maintaining quality standards, and supporting laboratory technicians. This role provides guidance in laboratory procedures, coordinates testing activities, and ensures compliance with established protocols. The Laboratory Lead works closely with the QC Manager and Laboratory Supervisor to maintain laboratory efficiency while performing routine testing and analysis.
Job Status:
- Full-Time
- Hourly
- Non-Exempt
- Reports to: Laboratory Supervisor or QC Manager
Role Responsibilities:
1. Laboratory Operations Support
- Assist in coordinating daily laboratory activities to ensure timely and accurate sample testing.
- Monitor laboratory workflows and provide guidance to technicians as needed.
- Ensure compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.
- Support shift transitions by communicating ongoing work and upcoming tasks to the next team.
2. Sample and Testing Management
- Perform routine analytical and physical testing following established laboratory protocols.
- Support sample preparation, labeling, and tracking to maintain accurate records.
- Ensure proper documentation and data entry for all tests performed.
- Assist in troubleshooting minor issues with analytical instruments and escalating larger concerns to the Laboratory Supervisor.
3. Quality Control and Compliance
- Help review test results for accuracy and compliance with laboratory standards.
- Ensure laboratory procedures align with customer-specific protocols and regulatory requirements.
- Assist with maintaining inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents.
- Monitor sample retain areas and ensure proper storage of samples.
4. Training and Technical Support
- Provide basic training and guidance to new laboratory technicians on testing procedures.
- Ensure that all lab personnel follow proper safety and handling protocols.
- Assist in the documentation of training materials and updated SOPs.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives in laboratory efficiency and accuracy.
Education:
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, or a related field preferred.
Experience / Skills / Abilities:
- 2+ years of experience in a laboratory setting, preferably in quality control or analytical testing.
- Basic knowledge of analytical instruments (e.g., GC, HPLC, spectrophotometry) is a plus.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and laboratory data entry systems.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data recording and sample tracking.
- Ability to troubleshoot minor laboratory issues and assist technicians as needed.
- Good communication and teamwork skills to coordinate effectively with lab personnel and supervisors.
Job Expectations / Working Conditions:
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged standing and working in a laboratory environment.
- Repetitive hand movements for handling laboratory equipment and samples.
- Occasional lifting of materials up to 20 pounds.
- Ability to bend, reach, squat, pull, and push in a lab setting.
Work Environment:
- Laboratory and manufacturing facility setting.
- Exposure to chemicals, solvents, and laboratory equipment (with proper PPE provided).
- Controlled temperature and humidity environments.
- Potential noise from analytical instruments.
Additional Expectations:
- Availability for shift coverage and occasional weekend work as needed.
- Commitment to following safety and compliance standards at all times.
- Willingness to support urgent testing requests and adjust work priorities as necessary.