Lab Manager

Job#: 1367953

Job Description:

Apex Systems is seeking a qualified and highly motivated individual for the role of Lab Manager in the Lima OH area. This role is a direct hire position and a great opportunity to work with an industry leader in the corn ethanol and animal feed industry. Relocation candidates are invited to apply.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of ethanol/animal feed production lab experience, an in-depth understanding of production lab equipment (such as HPLC, Gas Chromatography, Ice Chromatography, Lab Centrifuges, etc.).

About Our Client:

Touted as the best and most user-friendly corn-processing plant in the area, Guardian Lima is responsible for the production of ethanol and animal feed.

Job Overview:

This position is responsible for managing the quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program for the ethanol plant to ensure maximum production quantity and quality, while supporting policies, goals and objectives of the company.

Specific Responsibilities:

Manage plant QA/QC program.

• Initiate and implement plant QA/QC program based on best practice in the ethanol industry.
• Monitor use and inventories of laboratory chemicals and supplies. Initiate re-ordering when necessary.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment.
• Prepare reports, analyze data and make recommendations for improving operation or solving process related problems.
• Sample various points in the process and conducts QA/QC tests as required.

Order Process Chemicals as needed.

• Monitor the usage of chemicals used in fermentation to ensure an adequate supply.
• Negotiate prices and terms to maximize earnings.

Supervise Laboratory Tech and Utility Operators.

• Ensure that technicians are adequately trained, equipped and motivated, so that QA/QC program can be accomplished in a safe, timely and cost-effective manner.
• Assist with hiring of laboratory personnel.
• Assist Plant Manager with conducting employee performance reviews based on job descriptions to determine competency, knowledge and contribution of the process operators.
• Maintain and update operating and training manuals for the QA laboratory. Ensure that technicians are trained on the most updated version of the operating procedures.

Monitor plant QA/QC parameters.

• Review the operation of the plant constantly to monitor production and quality, to anticipate problems and solve in a timely manner, and to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Initiate and carry out projects that improve efficiency, production, and/or reduce operating costs.
• Maintain adequate records on a daily, weekly and monthly basis, of key QA/QC variables.

Maintain safety, health and environmental policies and procedures.

• Ensure county, state, and federal regulations relating to the QA laboratory are met at all times.
• Direct, maintain, and enforce the safety program for the QA laboratory; review safety records to uphold standards of maximum safety for all laboratory technicians.
• Ensure effective participation by the process operators in the implementation of QA/QC policies and procedures.
• Maintain environmental control program including testing and reporting as required by regulatory agencies.

Position Requirements & Experience:

• 5+ years experience in a QA laboratory in a dry-mill ethanol plant or related industry preferred.
• Experience with implementing effective QA/QC programs.
• In-depth knowledge of mashing, fermentation, and distillation as they relate to the ethanol production process.
• Experience with environmental testing and reporting.
• Knowledge of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
• In-depth understanding of HPLC, Gas Chromatography, Ice Chromatography, Lab Centrifuges, etc.
• Strong social skills, leadership abilities, and mentorship/training background.