Job Summary: The Laboratory Manager will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of our multidisciplinary R&D & MSAT labs, which include chemical, biological, high-potent, pilot plant and analytical laboratories. This senior role oversees a team of Lab Operations personnel to ensure the safe, compliant and efficient functioning of all lab spaces. They will take ownership of lab upkeep, equipment coordination, vendor scheduling, and lab support systems, while serving as the main point of contact for lab-related needs across scientific and support functions. The ideal candidate will be comfortable being regularly present in the labs and leading the Lab Operations team by example.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership and Management: Lead, support and develop a team of Lab Operations personnel
- Work alongside the team to carry out lab upkeep activities, troubleshoot issues, and keep labs running smoothly.
- Set clear priorities for the team and maintain a strong presence in the lab to provide practical guidance and oversight.
- Operational Oversight: Take ownership of lab upkeep across multiple lab types (chemical, high-potent, biological, pilot plant and analytical).
- Oversee equipment scheduling, servicing preventative maintenance, and calibration schedules in coordination with external vendors and the Lab Operations team.
- Ensure smooth execution of lab support activities including lab coat management, waste disposal and stocking of consumables and chemicals.
- Collaborate closely with the Supply Chain and Tech Ops teams to ensure appropriate inventory levels are maintained and that reordering processes run efficiently.
- Safety and Compliance: Ensure safe working conditions across all labs, and adherence to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards and EHS requirements.
- Conduct routine checks of lab spaces and address issues proactively with support from the team.
- Act as a key contact for internal safety audits and corrective actions. Promote a culture of safety and quality within the lab
- Systems & Documentation: Ensure effective use of lab support systems (e.g., LabCup, AssetTiger) for tracking equipment, inventory, and service records.
- Lead implementation and improvements while delegating routine updates and data entry to the Lab Operations team.
- Support the creation and maintenance of EHS and Quality documentation (e.g., SOPs, Job Aids, GENOPs), promoting a fit-for-purpose approach that captures essential information without unnecessary complexity.
- Continuous Improvement:
- Identify and implement practical improvements to lab workflows, layout, documentation, and support systems that enhance safety, efficiency, and ease of use.
- Encourage continuous review of lab practices to reduce friction, including finding efficiencies in documentation that maintain compliance while minimizing burden on staff.
- Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry) is required. A Master's degree or PhD is preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a laboratory management role within academia, the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical or related industry
- Experience overseeing day-to-day activities across a range of lab environments (e.g., chemical, biological, high-potent, analytical, or pilot-scale labs) is preferred. Training and support can be provided where exposure to specific lab types is limited.
- Strong knowledge of GLP standards and regulatory requirements.
- Excellent leadership and team management skills
- Proven ability to manage multiple initiatives and priorities effectively.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Working Relationships:
- Internal: Regular, close contact with the Tech Operations Team, Supply Chain Function, EHS Department, Quality Department and Lab Operations & Facilities Teams.
- External: Regular contact with external vendors and suppliers
How to apply
Suitable candidates should submit a CV and a Cover Letter by close of business 11th July 2025
APC/VLE is committed to the principle of equal opportunity for all employees. All employment decisions at APC/VLE are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to gender, ethnicity, age, religious belief, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, or any other status protected by Irish law.
Similar vacancies arising in the coming 6 months may be filled from this group of applicants.