Lead QC & Materials Analysis (24/7 Lab)

Ingevity; Warrington; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ingevity is seeking a senior Quality Control Leader for our Warrington site. You will head the QC department spanning three locations, overseeing the Materials Testing and Analytical laboratory, and guiding chemists and technicians in a 24/7 operation.

You will drive continuous improvement, ensure testing quality, and maintain compliance with ISO 9001 and GMP. A minimum of 8–10 years in QC/analytical roles and a strong materials background are required.

Qualifications

• Strong background in Quality Control, testing, or laboratory management.
• Minimum BSc in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Physics, Analytical Chemistry or related field.
• Experience managing teams in a technical environment, including shift teams where contact can be limited.
• Knowledge of quality systems and standards (e.g., ISO 9001, GMP).
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management.
• Formal qualification or relevant experience (8-10 years) in a material’s testing or analytical environment is essential.
• Substantial knowledge of polymeric materials especially plastics, polyurethanes, rubber and their properties.
• Experience in handling and testing high hazardous materials, e.g Hydrogen Peroxide, Peracetic Acid.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Quality Control team spanning 3 different locations, including laboratory technicians and analysts; the Quality Control team is a 24/7 operation.
• Oversee the Materials Testing and Analytical laboratory and the work of the chemists and technicians.
• Develop team capability through coaching, training, and performance management.
• Set priorities and ensure efficient allocation of resources.
• Establish a ‘Materials Testing and Analytical service’ model to support the needs of the Innovation department.
• Establish continuous improvement mindset throughout the team.
• Support the team to provide Materials Science and/or Analytical interpretation of test results.
• Ensure accurate, timely, and reliable testing results.
• Approve test methods and ensure they are fit for purpose.
• Follow ISO, ASTM, BSI or equivalent test standards and implement changes as needed.
• Support customer quality complaints with all required testing, analysis and interpretation.
• Ensure the lab areas adhere to the 5S standard to ensure an efficient and effective workplace.
• Ensure all equipment is maintained and calibrated to required schedules.
• Document all use of chemicals for waste management compliance.
• Liaise with external testing providers.
• Comply with safety and environmental requirements of the Warrington site.
• Plan equipment purchasing and capital expenditure recommendations.
• Lead the QC function as a change agent and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Quality Control

Laboratory Management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

BSc in Materials Science

Job description

Ingevity is seeking a senior Quality Control Leader for our Warrington site. You will head the QC department spanning three locations, overseeing the Materials Testing and Analytical laboratory, and guiding chemists and technicians in a 24/7 operation.

You will drive continuous improvement, ensure testing quality, and maintain compliance with ISO 9001 and GMP. A minimum of 8–10 years in QC/analytical roles and a strong materials background are required.