Technical Operations Lead – Food & Cosmetics Lab

Quant Qualitätssicherung GmbH; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Microbiological Services – A Tentamus Company in the UK is seeking an experienced Technical Operations Manager to lead our food and cosmetics testing laboratory. You will manage technical projects, mentor analysts and act as the primary contact for client inquiries.

You will ensure our testing methodologies and quality control align with ISO 17025 standards and safety legislation, supporting continuous improvement and KPI reporting.

Qualifications

• Experience in lab management or a senior technical role in the food or cosmetics industry.
• On-site leadership and people management skills.
• Strong knowledge of ISO 17025 accreditation and safety requirements.
• Experience in cosmetics testing including microbiological, chemical and physical testing.
• Excellent IT literacy.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Laboratory Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure ISO 17025 compliance.
• Lead and mentor Technicians and Microbiologists; manage training and goals.
• Oversee microbiological food and cosmetic testing operations and ensure turnaround times.
• Lead readiness for audits and manage responses to third-party, customer and regulatory audits.
• Collaborate with Quality Team to maintain high standards and present KPI data.
• Act as technical on-site authority for testing methodologies and safety requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Quality & Compliance

Testing & Analysis

Auditing

KPI Reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry or related field

Job description

Southern Microbiological Services – A Tentamus Company in the UK is seeking an experienced Technical Operations Manager to lead our food and cosmetics testing laboratory. You will manage technical projects, mentor analysts and act as the primary contact for client inquiries.

You will ensure our testing methodologies and quality control align with ISO 17025 standards and safety legislation, supporting continuous improvement and KPI reporting.