Laboratory Manager

Lucion; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading laboratory services provider in Gateshead is seeking a Laboratory Manager to oversee daily operations, manage a large team, and ensure compliance with UKAS-accredited standards. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in laboratory operations, a proven track record in leadership, and strong knowledge of quality management systems. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Continuous professional development and training opportunities

Positive, inclusive culture

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' professional experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams of 10+ staff.
• Strong understanding of ISO 17025, LAB 30, or similar quality systems.
• Demonstrable record of improving customer service and laboratory performance.
• Experience managing laboratory budgets and resources.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a laboratory team of 10+ full-time employees.
• Maintain compliance with ISO 17025, LAB 30, and quality management systems.
• Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results.
• Manage laboratory budgets and resources.
• Conduct staff training and performance reviews.

Skills

Leadership

Laboratory management

Asbestos testing

Quality management systems

Customer service improvement

Education

RSPH Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management

Job description

Overview

Laboratory Manager – Lucion Services (Gateshead)

Location: Gateshead, Tyne and Wear

Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

The Role

As our Laboratory Manager, you’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of our busy analytical laboratories, ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency at every level. You will manage a team of laboratory professionals, uphold UKAS-accredited standards, and lead initiatives to improve performance, customer service, and technical capability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a laboratory team of 10+ full-time employees, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration.
• Maintain compliance with ISO 17025, LAB 30, and relevant quality management systems.
• Oversee all aspects of laboratory performance, including workflow, sample preparation, and analytical procedures.
• Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results in line with OTD (On Time Delivery) targets and client expectations.
• Manage laboratory budgets, resources, consumables, and waste disposal.
• Conduct staff training, authorisations, competency assessments, and performance reviews.
• Support and lead UKAS audits, accreditation activities, and compliance monitoring.
• Oversee participation in RICE, AIMS, AISS, SEMS, or equivalent proficiency testing schemes.
• Develop and implement new analytical methods and drive investment in laboratory capability and innovation.
• Interpret and report analytical data for internal and external clients.
• Act as a technical mentor to laboratory and chemistry staff, ensuring robust analytical standards and safety protocols.

About You

We’re looking for a technically proficient, people-focused leader with a passion for laboratory excellence and continuous improvement.

Essential Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ professional experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams of 10+ staff.
• Strong understanding of ISO 17025, LAB 30, or similar quality systems.
• Demonstrable record of improving customer service and laboratory performance.
• Experience managing laboratory budgets and resources.
• Competence in BOHS proficiency modules.
• Sound knowledge of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
• Proven experience with UKAS accreditation and audit processes.

Desirable

• RSPH Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management.
• Experience developing new laboratory methods and implementing new technologies.

Why Lucion?

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead within a UKAS-accredited, market-leading laboratory.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
• A positive, inclusive culture built on safety, integrity, and innovation.