Director, Global Lab Operations

Talent Wave Associates; Toledo (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Talent Wave Associates seeks a seasoned leader to direct laboratory and test operations across multiple sites, driving efficiency and safety. You will shape testing processes, mentor engineers, and coordinate with stakeholders to improve data quality and project execution.

The role requires a master’s in engineering or equivalent experience, with a track record of managing large teams, budgets, and complex test infrastructures.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering is required.
• Bachelor’s degree with 10 years of relevant operations experience may be considered.
• 7 years in operations management within manufacturing.
• 5 years leading large teams.
• Proven ability to direct large-scale test infrastructure and lab operations.
• Budget management and continuous improvement experience.
• Strong data analysis and reporting skills.
• Collaboration with internal and external partners.
• Coaching technical staff and delivering on schedule.

Responsibilities

• Establish and track metrics for efficiency and data quality.
• Oversee calibration and maintenance of lab equipment to ensure uptime.
• Lead equipment development and qualification programs.
• Direct test infrastructure projects, including layout and expansion.
• Prepare and present status reports; foster team performance.
• Manage budgets and project adherence.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, external labs, and certification bodies.
• Mentor and train engineers and technicians.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Statistical analysis

Mentor and train engineers

Data handling and reporting

Collaboration with stakeholders

Education

Master’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree with 10 years relevant experience

Tools

FMEAs

Control plans

Work instructions

Calibration of lab equipment

Job description

Are you ready to lead laboratory and test operations across multiple global sites while driving innovation and efficiency?

About the Role

This position oversees laboratory and test operations, ensuring robust testing processes and compliance with safety and environmental standards. The role is crucial for managing large teams, developing new equipment, and collaborating with stakeholders to enhance operational efficiency and data quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and track metrics for operational efficiency and data quality.
• Oversee calibration and maintenance of lab equipment to ensure high uptime.
• Develop and maintain equipment FMEAs, work instructions, and control plans.
• Lead new equipment and test method development and rollout.
• Direct test infrastructure projects, including layout and expansion.
• Manage budgets, cost projections, and ensure project adherence.
• Execute test plans on time and manage data handling and reporting.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, external labs, and certification bodies.
• Mentor and train engineers and technicians in technical methods.
• Prepare and present status reports and foster team performance.

Minimum Requirements

• Master’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering required; bachelor’s degree with 10 years of relevant experience may be considered.
• 7 years in operations management within manufacturing.
• 5 years leading large teams.
• Proven ability to direct large-scale test infrastructure and lab operations.
• Lead equipment development and qualification programs.
• Manage budgets and drive continuous improvement.
• Maintain high equipment uptime and process controls.
• Handle statistical analysis and reporting.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners.
• Coach technical staff and deliver results on schedule.

At Talent Wave Associates, we connect outstanding talent with exceptional opportunities. We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering an inclusive, people-first recruiting experience.

As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our applicant tracking system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.