Laboratory Manager
As a key member of the team, the Laboratory Manager plays a vital role in delivering high-quality asbestos sampling and analysis services across a range of field environments. This position combines hands‐on operational work with leadership of the laboratory function, ensuring the delivery of accurate, timely results while supporting the organisation's quality and compliance systems.
This is an opportunity to join an innovative and rapidly growing specialist consultancy with ambitious expansion plans. As one of the organisation's key hires, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to help shape the future direction of the laboratory, influence operational processes, and grow with the business as it continues to expand.
Operational & Client‐Facing Responsibilities
This part of the role focuses on asbestos inspections, sample collection and delivering reliable results for clients. You will represent the organisation onsite, maintaining professionalism and technical excellence.
* Conducting asbestos inspections and collecting representative samples for analysis across a variety of sites, including residential, commercial and industrial locations.
* Performing accurate field sampling in accordance with internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
* Maintaining safe work practices onsite, adhering to WHS protocols and using appropriate PPE.
* Ensuring full chain‐of‐custody procedures are followed for all samples.
* Conducting asbestos fibre identification by Polarised Light Microscopy (PLM), including the use of stereo microscopy for fibre detection and refractive index determination, in accordance with AS 4964, AS 5370 and internal SOPs.
* Overseeing the laboratory's compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements.
* Delivering efficient sample analysis with a focus on providing same‐day results where operationally possible.
* Communicating clearly with clients about findings, explaining testing procedures and results in plain language.
* Supporting the training and mentorship of junior field staff where required.
Management Systems & Compliance Responsibilities
* Strictly adhering to documented SOPs and quality procedures.
* Completing all field and laboratory records in line with ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO 9001 quality requirements.
* Participating in the control of documented information, including providing feedback on procedure updates and process improvements.
* Supporting internal and external audit readiness through accurate record keeping and evidence collection.
* Contributing to risk assessments, improvement initiatives and corrective actions.
* Providing feedback on the effectiveness of operational controls, procedures and workflows.
* Completing assigned actions relating to continuous improvement and non‐conformance management.
About You
* A relevant tertiary qualification together with practical asbestos fibre identification experience; or
* At least five years' directly relevant industry experience demonstrating equivalent technical competency.
* Proven experience in asbestos fibre identification using stereo microscopy and PLM techniques.
* The ability to successfully meet laboratory proficiency testing requirements.
* Strong organisational and reporting skills, with the ability to produce accurate technical documentation.
* A practical, hands‐on approach with excellent communication and client relationship skills.
* The drive to contribute to a growing business and take advantage of future leadership and career development opportunities as the organisation continues to evolve.
The role offers a high degree of autonomy, supported by established reporting software and administrative resources that assist with scheduling and workflow management.
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