Laboratory Manager

Better Chemistry for a Better Future.  We believe that we can create a better future for our communities, customers, and employees by doing chemistry better. When we create safer, more efficient, more environmentally responsible chemistry and apply it using the best people and technology available we can make a huge impact. With over 60 years of research & development driven progress in specialty chemistry, Guardian Chemicals has worked hard to earn our reputation as a leader in the space. Our team, unified through their shared vision and core values, work together to support our customers and the industries they serve to drive a cleaner, safer, and more efficient industry forward.  Based in Sturgeon County, Alberta, Guardian provides direct chemical, equipment, and specialized service technologists to a large variety of primary and secondary industries throughout Canada, the USA, and internationally.  Guardian currently has three main divisions : industrial, water treatment, and wood products.   Our Core Values   Seek Understanding – Ask, listen, absorb   Growth Mindset – Always looking to develop  Initiative – Take the first step, go beyond  Grit – Perseverance through determination  Courage – Try what scares you, trust those around you, say what matters  Elevate Others – Create heroes in those around you  Purpose The purpose of this role is to lead and manage all aspects of lab operations to ensure alignment with the organization's vision, strategic priorities, and core values. As the Laboratory Manager you will be responsible for establishing and sustaining a high-performing lab team. This entails managing lab staff from recruitment to off-boarding and fostering a cohesive, effective team environment. The role ensures that the laboratory meets Guardian's needs for product development, quality control, sample analysis, regulatory compliance, and technical support. This position ensures timely project execution, cross-functional collaboration, and the delivery of exceptional results to both internal and external stakeholders. What will you do As part of your duties, you will : Manage the employee lifecycle for lab staff, including recruitment, onboarding, professional development, and off-boarding. Cultivate a collaborative, high-performing team environment that supports the organization’s vision and strategic priorities. Oversee task and resource allocation within the lab, ensuring clear accountability, defined roles, and timely completion of deliverables. Facilitate biweekly technical meetings and quarterly reviews to evaluate team performance, adherence to core values, and progress toward objectives. Provide constructive feedback, mentorship, and implement corrective actions or recognition as needed. Develop and implement comprehensive training programs tailored to lab staff, focusing on safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and technical skills to meet operational and industry standards. Conduct regular safety meetings and maintain compliance with safety standards. Oversee quality control processes and concessions, ensuring ISO compliance and optimized turnaround times. Analyze raw material and finished goods data to identify trends, drive improvements, and collaborate with suppliers for enhanced quality. Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, identify root cause and resolution. Ensure the accurate and timely completion of sample analyses for both internal and external stakeholders. Serve as a key technical resource for internal teams and external stakeholders, ensuring the delivery of technical support and product knowledge by the team. Collaborate with Product Management and SMEs to prioritize new projects. Evaluate projects for safety, resource allocation, environmental impact, and cost efficiency. Assign responsibilities, monitor progress, address issues, and ensure adherence to project timelines . Maintain regulatory compliance with standards and directives, including TDG, GHS, PMRA, DIN, NPRI, HMIRA, NRC, and SRED. Support ISO and COR standards by adhering to procedures, participating in audits, and contributing to improvement initiatives. Actively promote and uphold the company’s core values, fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration. Maintain effective communication with all departments to support cross-functional activities and organizational goals. What you will bring : Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as Chemistry, Biology, or Laboratory Technology). Advanced degrees or certifications would be advantageous. Strong leadership skills, ability to communicate effectively at all levels, proficiency in lab management, and a keen analytical mindset. Comprehensive understanding of laboratory operations, safety protocols, and relevant regulatory standards as mentioned. Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in a similar role, with a proven track record of managing and improving laboratory operations in a complex organization. Experience in team management and development is essential. Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. High ethical standards and a commitment to fostering a culture of integrity and inclusivity within the organization. At Guardian Chemicals, We Believe Diversity & Inclusion   Drive   Innovation    We are committed to the celebration of cultural differences, personal and professional values, and how these contribute to our culture and the communities we serve.  We understand that everyone has strengths, and we embrace those strengths.  We nurture the growth of each of our employees and empower our teams to support our core values.  We are a proud participant of the 50 – 30 Challenge - an initiative specializing in the recruitment of a diverse and inclusive workforce.  We believe a diverse and inclusive work force is essential.  Guardian Chemicals Inc. provides a competitive base salary, benefits program, RRSP and Pension plan, Bonus plan and the opportunity to work with an industry leader in the chemical industry.     We thank all those who apply, but we will only contact applicants selected for an interview.  To learn more, please visit http : / / www.guardianchem.com   Powered by JazzHR