Laboratory Operations Manager

Canadian Executive Search Group (USA) Inc / Division of Arrow Group of Companies; Hebron (OH); On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

CES/AWS is seeking a hands-on Lab Manager to lead sampling and assay operations supporting catalytic converter processing and precious metals recovery in Hebron, OH. This role ensures sampling and assay results are accurate, consistent, defensible, and completed on schedule, with direct oversight of Lab Technicians, Sampling Associates, and contractors.

You will develop SOPs, manage QA/QC, oversee XRF and ICP testing, and collaborate with Operations and Commercial teams to optimize turnaround

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Metallurgy, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 3–5+ years of experience in sampling, assay, or analytical laboratory operations.
• Experience in metals recycling, precious metals refining, mining, or a related environment preferred.
• Experience with catalytic converter processing, PGM assay methods, or precious metals settlement is highly preferred.
• Previous supervisory or team lead experience required.
• Working knowledge of XRF, ICP, sampling theory, homogenization, and assay variance.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook; lab information systems or ERP platforms a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily sampling, sample preparation, homogenization, splitting, moisture testing, crushing, and analysis.
• Manage XRF and ICP testing, including calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality control.
• Develop and enforce SOPs, chain-of-custody procedures, and sample traceability.
• Review and validate assay results, investigate discrepancies, and identify trends or variances.
• Partner with Operations and Commercial teams to ensure assay turnaround times support production and purchasing settlements.
• Lead, train, and schedule Lab Technicians, Sampling Associates, and contractors.
• Establish and track KPIs such as assay accuracy, turnaround time, cost per sample, and re-test rates.
• Ensure compliance with quality, environmental, health, and safety requirements.
• Support audits, umpire samples, supplier/customer disputes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage lab supplies, equipment service, maintenance, vendors, and critical spare parts.
• Support the department OPEX budget and CAPEX projects, including equipment upgrades and facility improvements.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Metallurgy, Materials Science, or a related field

Tools

XRF

ICP

Laboratory information systems

ERP platforms

Job description

CES/AWS is looking for a Lab Manager for our recycling and metals recovery client.

• Location: Hebron, OH
• Salary: up to $60,000
• Direct Hire

We’re looking for an experienced Lab Manager to lead our sampling and assay operations supporting catalytic converter processing and precious metals recovery.

This is a hands‑on leadership role responsible for ensuring sampling and assay results are accurate, consistent, defensible, and completed on schedule.

What You’ll Do

• Oversee daily sampling, sample preparation, homogenization, splitting, moisture testing, crushing, and analysis.
• Manage XRF and ICP testing, including calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality control.
• Develop and enforce SOPs, chain-of-custody procedures, and sample traceability.
• Review and validate assay results, investigate discrepancies, and identify trends or variances.
• Partner with Operations and Commercial teams to ensure assay turnaround times support production and purchasing settlements.
• Lead, train, and schedule Lab Technicians, Sampling Associates, and contractors.
• Establish and track KPIs such as assay accuracy, turnaround time, cost per sample, and re‑test rates.
• Ensure compliance with quality, environmental, health, and safety requirements.
• Support audits, umpire samples, supplier/customer disputes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage lab supplies, equipment service, maintenance, vendors, and critical spare parts.
• Support the department OPEX budget and CAPEX projects, including equipment upgrades and facility improvements.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Metallurgy, Materials Science, or a related field preferred.
• 3–5+ years of experience in sampling, assay, or analytical laboratory operations.
• Experience in metals recycling, precious metals refining, mining, or a related environment preferred.
• Experience with catalytic converter processing, PGM assay methods, or precious metals settlement is highly preferred.
• Previous supervisory or team lead experience required.
• Working knowledge of XRF, ICP, sampling theory, homogenization, and assay variance.
• Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Ability to interpret assay results, identify anomalies, and communicate findings to leadership.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook; experience with lab information systems or ERP platforms is a plus.