CTSNY Laboratory Manager

Job Summary:

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily technical operations of an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited cannabis analytical testing laboratory. This role ensures the accurate, timely, and compliant execution of all laboratory activities, including sample management, data review, and reporting. The Laboratory Manager provides direct supervision, training, and mentorship to laboratory staff, fostering a high-performance team environment focused on quality and continuous improvement.

In collaboration with the Quality department, the Laboratory Manager addresses non-conformances, participates in audits, and ensures strict adherence to regulatory requirements and internal SOPs. Additional responsibilities include managing laboratory inventory, maintaining and calibrating analytical equipment, and supporting method development and validation.

Success in this role requires strong technical writing and communication skills in analytical chemistry, excellent mathematical reasoning, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure without compromising accuracy or quality. Additionally, the individual in this role must be able to represent Smithers to clients both over the phone and in person and transmit a professional image.

Key Responsibilities:

• Responsible for providing day-to-day supervision over technical laboratory operations
• Oversee sample management, including sample receipt, preparation, analysis, data review, and reporting
• Effectively manage staff training, performance, 1:1 meetings, and evaluations for a team of 3-5 scientists
• Ensure laboratory operations comply with ISO/IEC 17025 standards, state cannabis testing regulations, and internal SOPs
• Collaborate with the Quality department to address non-conformances and prepare and participate in internal and external audits
• Manage laboratory inventory, including reagents, standards, and consumables, and maintain cost-effective supply levels
• Ensure equipment is calibrated, maintained, and operating within specifications; and coordinate with senior management and vendors for service when required
• Develops and validates required testing methodologies as needed
• Records and organizes data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and/or laboratory notebooks
• Train, supervise and coach junior level staff
• Additional duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Education:

• A Bachelor's degree in the chemical, environmental, physical, or biological sciences, or engineering, meeting at least one of the following criteria:


• at least twenty-four (24) college semester credit hours in chemistry, OR
• at least sixteen (16) college semester credit hours in the biological sciences, including at least one course having microbiology as a major component


• Master's or Doctoral degree preferred

Experience:

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in organic, inorganic, or microbiological analytical testing and/or quality assurance, preferably in a highly regulated industry (e.g., cannabis, pharmaceuticals, food, biotechnology, etc.)
• Proven experience with ISO 17025 or similar laboratory quality management systems
• Experience with regulatory submissions, audits, and managing regulatory inspections
• Previous experience in a cannabis testing lab and/or in a supervisory capacity is a plus

Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of cannabis regulations and compliance requirements (local, state, and federal)
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) for regulatory and internal reporting
• Proficiency with data management systems, documentation, and reporting tools

Additional Requirements:

• Must be 21 years of age or older as required by NY state law
• Must be able to pass a background check
• Occasional long hours may be required during audits, inspections, or deadlines
• Ability to travel as needed (up to 10%)

Chemical Safety:

• Must be able to comprehend the potential hazards of the chemicals in use and adhere to the proper safety techniques as dictated by the Safety Manual and/or Management.

Laboratory Safety:

• Must be able to wear gloves, lab coat, eye protection, sleeves, hearing protection, pesticide suit, plastic booties, dust masks, a respirator, and a face mask.
• Must be able to understand and follow laboratory safety standards.

The salary range for this role is $105,000 - $110,000 annual gross pay. The salary range is dependent on factors including education, experience, and skills.

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