Scientific Laboratory Director - ZipRecruiter : Job Details

Job DescriptionJob Description

Summary

We are a state-approved testing laboratory specializing in the cannabis industry. The Scientific Lab Director oversees all scientific aspects of laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, maintaining rigorous quality standards, and optimizing laboratory workflows. This role is responsible for developing and enforcing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and laboratory protocols to maintain the highest level of accuracy and reliability in testing.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversee laboratory testing systems to ensure quality and compliance across all phases of test performance (pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic).

• Maintain appropriate physical and environmental conditions for testing.

• Develop and approve new test procedures, ensuring they are properly documented and followed by laboratory personnel.

• Ensure all scientific data meets strict quality control standards.

• Oversee regulatory compliance, including safety, environmental, and documentation requirements.

• Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to implement new technologies and methodologies that enhance laboratory workflow and data accuracy.

• Represent the laboratory in interactions with regulatory agencies.

• Communicate scientific and regulatory developments to the sales team and customers.

• Establish and manage testing methods for cannabis contaminants (e.g., residual solvents, pesticides, heavy metals) and potency.

• Optimize chemical assays and continuously improve general laboratory workflows.

• Stay current with industry developments through literature reviews and professional engagement.

• Develop, author, and review technical documents and reports.

• Oversee and ensure the effectiveness of laboratory staff training on company policies and procedures.

• Train staff on various SOPs and proper instrumentation use.

• Approve controlled laboratory documentation.

• Manage quality control data, inventory, and laboratory supplies.

• Maintain ISO accreditation and compliance with ISO 17025 and other applicable accreditation standards.

• Conduct internal audits and implement corrective actions as needed.

• Maintain traceability records for chemicals and equipment, including control charts.

• Ensure proper documentation and training records for all lab personnel.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education & Experience:

  • Ph.D. in a scientific discipline with 2+ years of post-degree laboratory experience, OR

  • Master's degree with 4+ years of post-degree laboratory experience, OR

  • Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of post-degree laboratory experience.

• Strong expertise in analytical techniques, including method development, SOP creation, and LIMS integration.

• Hands-on experience with HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, and other chemistry techniques.

• Proficiency with Agilent instruments.

• Strong statistical analysis skills and understanding of quantification accuracy and variation.

• Experience in maintaining laboratory compliance with state and local regulatory agencies.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills.