Laboratory Lead - Aerospace Manufacturing

Matchtech; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Aerospace manufacturer is seeking an experienced Laboratory Lead in Southampton. This role involves managing lab operations, leading audits, and ensuring compliance in a high-performing environment. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in materials science and leadership skills.

Benefits

Up to 10% pension contribution

Life and medical cover

Cycle to work scheme

On-site gym and classes

Subsidized restaurant and vending services

26 days holiday plus bank holidays

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in materials and process technologies specific to aerospace.
• Deep understanding of NADCAP procedures across various commodities.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Technical Support

Education

Degree in Material Science

Degree in Metallurgy

Degree in Chemistry

Job description

Laboratory Lead - Aerospace Manufacturing

Ref no. BHN587223

Location: Southampton, England

Start date: ASAP

Job type: Permanent

Status: Open

Job summary

Our client within the Aerospace sector is seeking an experienced Laboratory Lead in Southampton on a permanent basis.

Key skills required

Important

Prior experience leading teams in a Laboratory environment within the Aerospace domain, NAPCAP, Metallurgy.

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

This is a rare opportunity to join a high-performing environment where innovation, precision, and continuous improvement are prioritized. You will lead daily lab activities, support quality and EHS initiatives, and oversee calibration services and audits.

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.
• Promote EHS and Quality culture and best practices.
• Analyze test data trends to ensure technical compliance.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing, operations, and engineering teams.
• Serve as Radiological Protection Supervisor.
• Manage internal and external calibration services, including subcontractor coordination and database management.
• Identify and implement calibration process improvements to enhance quality, turnaround, and cost efficiency.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Material Science, Metallurgy, Chemistry, or equivalent technical experience.
• Extensive experience in materials and process technologies specific to aerospace.
• Deep understanding of NADCAP procedures across various commodities.
• Specialist knowledge in heat treatment (including pyrometry), composite testing, or chemical analysis for surface treatments.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and work independently.

Benefits

• Up to 10% pension contribution
• Life and medical cover
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site gym and classes
• Subsidized restaurant and vending services
• 26 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Employee Assistance Programme

If you're ready to advance your technical leadership career within an advanced aerospace environment, apply today or contact us for a confidential discussion.

About Matchtech

Matchtech is a STEM Recruitment Specialist with over 40 years of experience.