Laboratory Director: Microbiology & Quality Excellence

Certified Group; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Certified Group seeks a Lab Director to provide day-to-day leadership and operational oversight of a microbiological and/or chemical laboratory within a single site, ensuring accurate, compliant, and high-quality testing services for the local customer base. This role oversees quality, customer, people, financial, workflow, and operational activities.

The Lab Director operates with a strong general manager mindset, balancing scientific rigor with business acumen.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years leading frontline supervisors in laboratory, manufacturing, or regulated environments.
• Experience in third-party laboratory testing or regulated industries (food, cosmetics, tobacco, cannabis, etc.).
• Proven ability to manage financial performance and operational KPIs.
• Strong written and verbal communication with cross-functional collaboration.
• Ability to engage with senior leadership and customers.

Responsibilities

• Foster a high-performing laboratory environment.
• Lead lab operations to ensure high-quality testing with timely turnaround times.
• Utilize operational scorecards and KPIs to monitor performance.
• Conduct daily operational huddles to align priorities and resources.
• Maintain technical competency and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Quality systems

Budgeting

Staff development

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor’s in Microbiology/Chemistry/Food Science

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Certified Group seeks a Lab Director to provide day-to-day leadership and operational oversight of a microbiological and/or chemical laboratory within a single site, ensuring accurate, compliant, and high-quality testing services for the local customer base. This role oversees quality, customer, people, financial, workflow, and operational activities.

The Lab Director operates with a strong general manager mindset, balancing scientific rigor with business acumen.