Food Testing Lab Department Lead

Element Materials Technology; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Element Materials Technology is seeking a Department Supervisor for its Fort Wayne Food Testing Laboratory. You will lead a team of technicians, ensure timely and accurate data, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support daily operations.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in a related technical field and prior supervisory experience, with familiarity in food safety testing methods and quality systems. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in food safety, microbiology, biochemistry, or a related technical field with at least one year of supervisory experience.
• Experience in food microbiology testing in a commercial lab using molecular and cultural techniques.
• Familiarity with FDA BAM, USDA MLG, and AOAC methods recommended.
• Strong computer and math skills with LIMS data entry and data review.
• Ability to lift <50 lbs. often and stand for long periods.
• Ability to work with a diverse team and communicate with customers.

Responsibilities

• Act as primary subject matter expert for microbiological and chemical food testing
• Under the direction of the Operations Manager, assist in the efficient operation and growth of the lab
• Provide direct supervision of laboratory technical staff
• Responsible for ensuring laboratory coverage 365 days a year by planning weekend and holiday rotations
• Provide professional and timely customer service to both internal and external customers
• Provide status updates, quote assistance and other customer service responsibilities as needed
• Participate in supervisory responsibilities including hiring decisions, performance management input, decisions and execution, and approval of timecards and overtime
• Understand the customer needs to translate and deliver desired customer results
• Adhere to, support and follow all Element safety guidelines
• Review and manage inventory to ensure critical supplies are maintained in stock
• The position is a working supervisor that will be able to fill in at the bench level where required due to staffing shortages or sample volume surges

Skills

Supervisory experience

Food safety knowledge

Laboratory supervision

LIMS data entry

Data review

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related technical field

Tools

LIMS

Job description

Element Materials Technology is seeking a Department Supervisor for its Fort Wayne Food Testing Laboratory. You will lead a team of technicians, ensure timely and accurate data, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support daily operations.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in a related technical field and prior supervisory experience, with familiarity in food safety testing methods and quality systems. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential.