Laboratory Manager - Lucion Services (Gateshead)

Location: Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits
Contract: Full Time, Permanent

About Us
At Lucion Services, we're dedicated to making the world a safer place to live and work. As one of the UK's leading risk management and compliance consultancies, our laboratories play a crucial role in delivering high-quality asbestos testing, environmental analysis, and scientific innovation. We're now looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to join our Gateshead team and lead a talented group of professionals in driving operational excellence, technical quality, and continuous improvement.

The Role

As our Laboratory Manager, you'll oversee the day-to-day operations of our busy analytical laboratories, ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency at every level. You will manage a team of laboratory professionals, uphold UKAS-accredited standards, and lead initiatives to improve performance, customer service, and technical capability.

Key Responsibilities:

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Lead and manage a laboratory team of 10+ full-time employees, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration.

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Maintain compliance with ISO 17025, LAB 30, and relevant quality management systems.

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Oversee all aspects of laboratory performance, including workflow, sample preparation, and analytical procedures.

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Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results in line with OTD (On Time Delivery) targets and client expectations.

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Manage laboratory budgets, resources, consumables, and waste disposal.

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Conduct staff training, authorisations, competency assessments, and performance reviews.

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Support and lead UKAS audits, accreditation activities, and compliance monitoring.

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Oversee participation in RICE, AIMS, AISS, SEMS, or equivalent proficiency testing schemes.

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Develop and implement new analytical methods and drive investment in laboratory capability and innovation.

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Interpret and report analytical data for internal and external clients.

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Act as a technical mentor to laboratory and chemistry staff, ensuring robust analytical standards and safety protocols.

About You

We're looking for a technically proficient, people-focused leader with a passion for laboratory excellence and continuous improvement.

Essential Requirements:

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Minimum 5 years' professional experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations.

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Proven leadership experience managing teams of 10+ staff.

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Strong understanding of ISO 17025, LAB 30, or similar quality systems.

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Demonstrable record of improving customer service and laboratory performance.

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Experience managing laboratory budgets and resources.

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Competence in BOHS proficiency modules.

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Sound knowledge of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

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Proven experience with UKAS accreditation and audit processes.

Desirable:

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RSPH Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management.

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Experience developing new laboratory methods and implementing new technologies.

Why Lucion?

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Competitive salary and benefits package.

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Opportunity to lead within a UKAS-accredited, market-leading laboratory.

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Continuous professional development and training opportunities.

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A positive, inclusive culture built on safety, integrity, and innovation