Laboratory and R&D Manager

Gannon Eco is seeking a hands-on Laboratory Manager to lead and coordinate our laboratory team and support our growing mineral processing, product development and R&D activities.

Gannon Eco has been at the forefront of innovative waste reprocessing and circular materials solutions for over two decades. Our work spans industrial mineral recovery, process engineering and environmental sustainability, with a focus on transforming industrial waste into high-value products.

Our licensed facility is the only facility in Ireland with three End-of-Waste declarations and more than 20 declared by-products. We work with customers across the Medical Device, Aerospace, Pharmaceutical, Semiconductor, Construction and other manufacturing industries to divert production waste from disposal and develop opportunities for reuse and recovery.

The Laboratory Manager will be responsible for coordinating and managing laboratory staff involved in mineral processing testing, product development and research activities on site. The role will play a key part in developing analytical methods and procedures, managing laboratory testing and reporting, conducting customer test work, and supporting R&D projects in the field of mineral processing.

JOB PURPOSE

To manage and coordinate the day-to-day activities of the laboratory while performing and overseeing analytical testing to support product development, technology and continuous improvement projects.

The role will support the development of robust new products and processes, as well as providing analytical support for existing commercial products. The Laboratory Manager will also be responsible for maintaining high standards of laboratory practice, quality, safety and documentation.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Essential Criteria

• Degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience and a strong chemistry background.
• Demonstrable IT skills, including Microsoft Office.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven people management and leadership experience.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of work.
• Demonstrable planning, organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to work proactively and effectively under time constraints.
• An analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Experience of maintaining quality documentation and supporting the implementation and ongoing effectiveness of quality systems.

Desirable Criteria

• Degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry or a related discipline, ideally at 2.1 level or higher.
• At least two years' practical experience working in an analytical laboratory.
• Experience of quality control testing of finished products and raw materials.
• Experience managing or supervising laboratory personnel.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality systems and procedures.
• Good interpersonal and team-working skills.
• Knowledge or experience of Lean Manufacturing, 5S and/or Six Sigma.
• Experience of laboratory equipment, analytical methods and method validation.
• Ability to instruct, coordinate and develop team members on a daily basis.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Recruit, manage, train and develop the laboratory/QC team, ensuring that all activities are carried out safely and in accordance with documented SOPs.
• Manage the day-to-day activities of the laboratory, ensuring testing is completed accurately, efficiently and within agreed timescales.
• Prepare, test and analyse samples using appropriate analytical and scientific techniques.
• Interpret analytical results and prepare clear, accurate reports.
• Maintain detailed laboratory records, including test methods, results, observations and conclusions.
• Develop and implement analytical methods and procedures to support new and existing products and processes.
• Support the validation and ongoing improvement of analytical testing methods.
• Ensure the effective implementation of approved sampling plans for finished products and raw materials.
• Maintain and support the effectiveness of the laboratory quality system, including laboratory documentation, SOPs, records and periodic reviews.
• Have overall responsibility for the laboratory budget, including planning, monitoring and control of laboratory expenditure.
• Manage the procurement of laboratory equipment, consumables and external laboratory services.
• Manage laboratory equipment maintenance, calibration and servicing requirements.
• Conduct and support evidence-based research and development activities.
• Support customer testing and technical investigations.
• Investigate potential applications for recovered materials and products across a range of industries.
• Prepare technical reports and, where appropriate, contribute to research publications and technical communications.
• Represent the Technical Operations function at internal and external meetings, including meetings with customers, suppliers and equipment/service providers.
• Contribute to the development and review of company policies, procedures and working practices.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement within laboratory operations and testing processes.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties that may be assigned by Senior Management.

LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT

• Actively participate in an individual development and performance improvement plan.
• Participate in continuous improvement and Lean Manufacturing initiatives and training.
• Ensure appropriate training is completed in relation to specific duties, laboratory procedures, equipment and health and safety requirements.
• Support the ongoing development and training of laboratory team members.

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

• Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
• Promote a positive, collaborative and professional working environment.
• Support the development, performance and wellbeing of laboratory team members.

HEALTH & SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT

• Understand and comply with the Company's Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Ensure laboratory activities are carried out in a safe and responsible manner.
• Ensure appropriate risk assessments, SOPs and control measures are followed.
• Comply with the Company's Environmental Management System and contribute to minimising the environmental impact of laboratory and site activities.
• Promote good housekeeping and laboratory standards at all times.

Please apply by uploading a copy of your CV by clicking apply now