Quality Control Lab Manager

Quality Control Manufacturing Plant Lab Manager

Job Description

Metglas, Inc., located in Conway, SC near Myrtle Beach, is a world leading producer of Amorphous Metal Ribbon. Since our company began in the 1970’s, Metglas, Inc. (then Allied Signal located in Morristown, NJ) pioneered the development and production of amorphous metal, a unique alloy that exhibits a structure in which the metal atoms occur in a random pattern. The key to Metglas Inc.’s proprietary manufacturing process is the rapid-solidification of molten alloy at a rate of approximately one million degrees Celsius per second.

We are currently hiring for a Quality Control Manufacturing Plant Lab Manager for our busy 24/7 metal manufacturing foundry.

The Quality Control Lab Manager plays a critical role in ensuring that all products meet stringent quality standards before reaching the market. This position is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the quality control laboratory, managing a team of technicians and analysts to perform accurate and timely testing. The manager will develop, implement, and maintain quality control procedures and protocols to comply with regulatory requirements and internal standards. They will collaborate closely with production, research and development, and regulatory departments to address quality issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Ultimately, the role ensures product safety, efficacy, and consistency, thereby protecting the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise the quality control laboratory team, including hiring, training, and performance management.
• Develop, validate, and maintain analytical methods and quality control procedures in compliance with industry regulations and company policies.
• Oversee the execution of routine and non-routine testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment calibration, maintenance, and inventory of reagents and supplies.
• Analyze test data, prepare detailed reports, and communicate findings to relevant departments to support decision-making and corrective actions.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies during inspections and audits, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory efficiency, accuracy, and turnaround times.

Minimum Qualifications:

The Quality Control Lab Manager utilizes strong analytical skills daily to interpret complex test results and ensure product compliance with quality standards. Leadership and communication skills are essential for managing the laboratory team, coordinating cross-functional collaboration, and reporting findings to stakeholders. Technical proficiency with laboratory instruments and software enables efficient method development, validation, and troubleshooting. Organizational skills are critical for managing multiple projects, maintaining documentation, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Additionally, problem-solving abilities support continuous improvement efforts and effective resolution of quality issues.

Direct Reports – 15 Hourly; Broad Control – QA & Chemical Technicians

Key Success Factors (Specific expectations during next 6 - 18 months):

• Quality focus integrated with NPPD (prototype development) in Conway.
• Compliance with IATF standard.
• Manage department budget.

Attributes/Skills Required/Sought:

• Technical excellence – statistical, analytical, and computer skills
• Strong business skills.
• Customer focused.
• Creative and innovative thinker
• Excellent communication and presentation skills

Experience/Education Required/Sought:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Materials Science, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a quality control laboratory environment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of potentially relevant regulatory standards (e.g., ASTM, NADCAP, ISO 9001, ISO 17025, IATF 16949).
• Proficiency in analytical techniques such as WD-XRF, ICP-OES, SEM-EDS, TGA, DSC, and wet chemistry methods.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant scientific field.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic documentation.
• Familiarity with Six Sigma, Lean, or other quality improvement methodologies.
• Previous experience in steel manufacturing, ore refining, automative, aerospace, or other metals related industries preferred.
• Certification in quality management or laboratory management (e.g., ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence).
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Medium to advanced level in Microsoft Office, specifically Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant scientific field.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic documentation.
• Familiarity with Six Sigma, Lean, or other quality improvement methodologies.
• Previous experience in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or food industries.
• Certification in quality management or laboratory management (e.g., ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence).

***This position requires compliance with ITAR and/or EAR requirements. As a potential candidate for this position, you must be a “U.S. Person” (as defined under 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 and 15 C.F.R. § 772.1). The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”) are the primary export control regulations in the United States. The successful candidate will be required to show proof substantiating their status as a U.S. Person.

Visit www.metglas.com to learn more about us.