Laboratory Manager

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

Job summary

A leading risk management consultancy in Gateshead is seeking an experienced Laboratory Manager to oversee laboratory operations and lead a team dedicated to quality and safety. As part of a UKAS-accredited facility, you will ensure compliance with ISO standards and drive operational excellence. Candidates should possess at least 5 years of experience in laboratory settings, ideally in asbestos testing or chemistry, and have proven leadership skills. This role offers a competitive salary along with excellent benefits.

Benefits

Continuous professional development

Competitive salary and benefits package

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.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a laboratory team of 10+ full-time employees.
• Maintain compliance with ISO 17025 and relevant quality management systems.
• Oversee all aspects of laboratory performance including workflow and analytical procedures.

Skills

Technical proficiency

Laboratory excellence

Leadership experience

Understanding ISO 17025

Customer service improvement

Job description

Job Introduction

Laboratory Manager – Lucion Services (Gateshead)

Location: Gateshead, Tyne and Wear

Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

About Us

At Lucion Services, we’re dedicated to making the world a safer place to live and work. As one of the UK’s leading risk management and compliance consultancies, our laboratories play a crucial role in delivering high-quality asbestos testing, environmental analysis, and scientific innovation. We’re now looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to join our Gateshead team and lead a talented group of professionals in driving operational excellence, technical quality, and continuous improvement.

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.

Apply