Laboratory Lead - Aerospace Manufacturing

Trimex bvba; Southampton; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Aerospace manufacturer is seeking a Laboratory Manager to lead their technical team in Southampton. This role involves overseeing lab operations, managing audits, and driving quality initiatives in a high-performing environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.

Benefits

Up to 10% pension contribution

Life and medical cover

Cycle to work scheme

On-site gym

Subsidised restaurant

26 days holiday + bank holidays

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in aerospace materials and process technologies.
• In-depth understanding of NADCAP procedures.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the materials laboratory.
• Lead preparation and hosting of NADCAP audits.
• Manage internal and external calibration services.

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Organisational Skills

Education

Degree in Material Science

Degree in Metallurgy

Degree in Chemistry

Job description

Are you a technically driven engineering professional with strong expertise in materials and processing within the aerospace sector? We're recruiting on behalf of a leading Aerospace manufacturer seeking a Laboratory Manager to lead and support their technical team across a diverse range of materials and testing capabilities.

This is a rare opportunity to join a high-performing environment where innovation, precision, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything. You'll lead daily lab activities, support key quality and EHS initiatives, and take the reins on calibration services and audit preparations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage daily operations of the materials laboratory.
• Lead the preparation and hosting of NADCAP audits.
• Supervise the Proficiency Testing Programme (PTP) for lab methods.
• Drive EHS and Quality culture while championing best practices.
• Analyse test data trends to ensure technical compliance.
• Offer technical support to manufacturing, operations, and engineering.
• Serve as Radiological Protection Supervisor.
• Manage both internal and external calibration services, including subcontractor coordination and database maintenance.
• Identify and implement calibration process improvements to enhance quality, turnaround time, and cost efficiency.
  
  

Essential Requirements

• Degree in Material Science, Metallurgy, or Chemistry (or significant equivalent technical experience).
• Extensive experience in materials and process technologies specific to the aerospace sector.
• In-depth understanding of NADCAP procedures across a broad range of commodities.
• Specialist knowledge in one or more of the following: heat treatment (incl. pyrometry), composite testing, or chemical analysis for surface treatments.
• Strong organisational, leadership, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and work independently when needed.
  
  

Benefits

• Up to 10% pension contribution
• Life and medical cover
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site gym for minimal monthly cost - inluding classes
• Subsidised restaurant and vending services
• 26 days holiday + bank holidays
• Employee Assistance Programme
  
  

If you're ready to take the next step in your technical leadership journey within an advanced aerospace environment, apply today or reach out for a confidential conversation.