Operations Manager, Chemistry
Crete Analytical Laboratory
Regular (US Only)
MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES
As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 32 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.
If you want to contribute to an inspiring long-term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high-value market with significant build-up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment, join us!
YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE
We are looking for a Operations Manager, Chemistry in 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, North Building, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to:
The Operations Manager - Chemistry provides strategic and operational leadership for food chemistry testing laboratories. This role ensures the accurate, efficient, and compliant execution of analytical testing services that may include (but are not limited to) nutritional analysis, contaminants, residues, allergens, heavy metals, mycotoxins, and other chemical assays relevant to food safety and quality.
The Operations Manager is responsible for aligning chemistry laboratory operations with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and client expectations. This position drives technical excellence, operational efficiency, method standardization, and continuous improvement while ensuring scientific integrity and data accuracy across all chemistry disciplines.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership & Business Alignment
- Develop and execute operational strategies specific to food chemistry testing services.
- Align chemistry laboratory capabilities with evolving regulatory requirements and client demands.
- Partner with commercial and technical teams to expand service offerings and support business growth.
- Lead cross-site harmonization of chemistry methods, instrumentation platforms, and quality practices.
Operational Oversight
- Oversee daily operations of chemistry departments, ensuring efficient workflow from sample receipt through data reporting.
- Monitor turnaround times, backlog, instrument utilization, and staffing capacity.
- Ensure proper scheduling, maintenance, calibration, and performance verification of analytical instruments.
- Support financial performance through cost control, productivity optimization, and capital planning for instrumentation.
Technical & Quality Leadership
- Serve as the senior technical authority for chemistry testing, ensuring scientific validity and data integrity.
- Oversee method validation, verification, and implementation of new analytical technologies.
- Review and approve corrective actions related to out-of-specification (OOS), out-of-trend (OOT), and non-conforming results.
- Partner with Quality Assurance to maintain ISO 17025 accreditation and audit readiness.
- Maintain authority to suspend analytical testing if quality systems or data integrity are compromised.
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
- Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and workflow optimization initiatives within chemistry operations.
- Identify automation opportunities in sample preparation, extraction, and data processing.
- Implement best practices for analytical efficiency, solvent reduction, and sustainability initiatives.
- Utilize KPI dashboards and analytical data trends to improve laboratory performance.
Resource & Performance Management
- Oversee workforce planning for chemists, analysts, and technical supervisors.
- Establish performance metrics aligned with quality, service, cost, and safety goals.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching to department leaders.
- Ensure proper training and competency assessments for complex instrumentation and methodologies.
Client & Regulatory Engagement
- Support client-facing technical discussions related to chemistry testing methodologies and results interpretation.
- Participate in client audits and regulatory inspections as the chemistry subject matter expert.
- Provide technical guidance during method transfers, validations, and large-scale client projects.
Technology & Systems
- Ensure effective use of LIMS and chromatography data systems for data traceability and compliance.
- Oversee instrument lifecycle management including procurement, qualification, and retirement planning.
- Support digital transformation initiatives to enhance data analytics and reporting transparency.
Other Responsibilities
- Serve as backup to senior laboratory leadership as required.
- Perform additional duties aligned with operational and technical objectives.
- Operate in full compliance with the company's Code of Conduct and ethical standards.
Communication
Internal: Frequent collaboration with Quality Assurance, Technical Directors, R&D, Client Services, Finance, and Regional Leadership to align chemistry operations with company strategy and compliance requirements.
External: Regular communication with clients, regulatory bodies, auditors, vendors, and instrumentation suppliers regarding analytical methods, compliance standards, and operational performance.
Success Factors / Job Competencies
- Advanced technical expertise in food chemistry testing
- Strong regulatory and compliance leadership
- Operational excellence and KPI management
- Strategic planning and instrumentation management
- Data integrity and analytical problem-solving
- Talent development and team leadership
- Effective client communication and technical presentation skills
YOUR PROFILE
Qualifications Required
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Food Science, Biochemistry, or related scientific field; Master's degree preferred.
- Minimum 8 years of experience in food chemistry laboratory operations, including at least 4 years in leadership or multi-department management.
- Demonstrated experience overseeing analytical platforms (e.g., HPLC, GC, GC-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, titration systems, etc.).
- Proven success managing laboratory budgets, KPIs, and cross-functional teams in a regulated environment.
Qualifications Desired
- Strong technical expertise in food chemistry methodologies, validation, and method development.
- In-depth knowledge of ISO 17025, FDA, USDA, AOAC, and other applicable regulatory frameworks.
- Experience leading instrumentation implementation, automation, or digital transformation initiatives.
- Proficiency with LIMS, chromatography data systems (CDS), and analytical data review processes.
- Advanced knowledge of quality control, measurement uncertainty, and root cause investigation.
- Strong leadership, change management, and strategic planning capabilities.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Physical Requirements: Extended time in laboratory environments; occasional lifting of materials up to 50 pounds.
Work Setting: Laboratory and office environments with exposure to chemicals, solvents, compressed gases, and analytical instrumentation.
Hazards & Safety: Must adhere to chemical hygiene plans, PPE requirements, and laboratory safety protocols.
Travel
Periodic travel (up to 15%) to support multi-site chemistry operations, audits, instrumentation installations, or client engagements.
Compensation Package Overview:
Compensation Range $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 annual salary USD
Potential bonus: Up to 10% based on performance.
Full Time Eligible Benefits Overview:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.
- Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.
The information above provides a general overview and may vary based on specific job responsibilities, location, or other factors. Details will be clarified during the hiring process.
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WHY JOIN US?
- Because you would contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose, supported by long-term and visionary shareholders.
- Because you would have an impact on our strategic pillars that build on 60 years of experience and expertise.
- Because you would be part of a community of an enthusiastic and skilled group of people who love co-building together and serving a purpose bigger than them.
- Because you would be welcome as you are, in a diverse and open-minded environment that is rich in our singularities and differences.
- Because you would grow in an international group of more than 10,000 fantastic team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share.
Ready for the journey?
To apply please click on ''Apply now'' button