Laboratory Manager

About the position

The Laboratory Manager at Stefanini, Inc. is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the East Hanover Lab and the Whippany Pilot Plant. This role involves managing lab activities, ensuring safety and compliance, maintaining equipment, and coordinating with vendors. The manager will also be responsible for budget planning, training staff, and presenting findings to senior leadership. The position requires strong technical skills and experience in laboratory management, particularly within the food industry.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day activities of the East Hanover lab and Whippany Pilot Plant.
• Perform requested packaging testing and share data with requestors.
• Support or execute trials at the Whippany Pilot Plant.
• Create or maintain internal test methods and SOPs for each instrument and equipment type.
• Purchase supplies and consumables as needed, following company procedures.
• Maintain a safe, organized, stocked, and tidy lab and pilot plant environment.
• Conduct tours of the lab for Senior Leadership.
• Coordinate periodic site safety inspections and facilitate updates to Risk Assessments.
• Plan and submit proposals for next year's budget, including capital expenses.
• Track expenses on blanket POs and ensure accurate phasing/forecasting.
• Maintain equipment schedules and coordinate repairs as needed.
• Identify new testing and equipment needs based on developer feedback.
• Act as a liaison between Packaging Developers and Pilot Plant staff to plan trials.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of laboratory experience, preferably in the food industry.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Experience in budgeting and financial tracking.
• Proficient in communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Background in chemical or mechanical engineering is acceptable.
• Experience with packaging development is ideal.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry.
• Technical knowledge in package engineering.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage of $50 - $53.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative environment.