Manager - Lab and Quality Control

Mesabi Metallics; Nashwauk (MN); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

401(k) with 6% company match

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Join Mesabi Metallics in Nashwauk, Minnesota as the Manager – Lab and Quality Control. This pivotal role requires overseeing laboratory and quality control operations to ensure compliance with standards and specifications.

Your leadership in testing and continuous improvement will help drive innovation in the iron ore industry. With a salary range of $100,000 to $125,000, this position also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years experience in Quality Control or laboratory functions.
• At least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Strong leadership and people-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the QC laboratory.
• Ensure timely testing and release of products.
• Drive quality improvement projects and process optimizations.

Skills

Quality Control

Leadership

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Laboratory instrumentation

Documentation skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Mineral Processing, Metallurgy, or related field

Job description

About Mesabi Metallics

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota’s mining history: Mesabi Metallics’ cutting‑edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed, it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years.

More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day. At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

Position Summary

The Manager – Lab and Quality Control is responsible for leading all laboratory and quality control operations, ensuring compliance with internal quality standards, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications. This role oversees sampling, testing activities, manages QC personnel, drives continuous improvement initiatives, and ensures accurate, timely analytical results that support safe and reliable product release.

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Quality Control (QC) laboratory, including chemistry and physical testing (as applicable)
• Ensure timely testing and release of raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and stability batches
• Implement best practices in laboratory workflows, instrumentation, and documentation
• Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines
• Maintain and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), test methods, and specifications
• Conduct internal audits, support external audits, and ensure closure of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Lead, mentor, and develop laboratory analysts and QC staff
• Plan training programs to enhance technical capabilities and regulatory understanding
• Manage work allocation, performance evaluations, and competency assessments
• Ensure accuracy, reliability, and traceability of laboratory data
• Manage online analysis equipment performance
• Review and approve test results, analytical reports, and certificates of analysis (COAs)
• Maintain QC documentation, logbooks, and digital records in compliance with data‑integrity standards
• Drive quality improvement projects, root‑cause analyses, and process optimization initiatives
• Implement new analytical techniques or automation to improve accuracy and efficiency
• Monitor key quality indicators and take proactive measures to prevent deviations
• Other duties as assigned

Skills and Qualifications

• 5‑10+ years of experience in Quality Control or laboratory functions, including at least 3 years in a supervisory/managerial role
• 5+ years in mineral processing engineering
• Strong leadership and people‑management skills
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities
• Proficiency in laboratory instrumentation and validation
• Strong documentation and communication skills
• Understanding of regulatory audits and compliance procedures
• Ability to multitask and manage priorities in a fast‑paced environment

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Mineral Processing, Metallurgy, or related field

Physical Requirements

• None

Salary Range

• $100,000 to $125,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage with an HSA option
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 6% company match
• Lincoln STD, LTD, & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics
• Paid Time Off (PTO): 0‑5 Years: 120 hours per year. 5‑10 Years: 160 hours per year. 10+ Years: 200 hours per year. Plus 9 paid holidays

Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.