Job Title: US Accelerated Lab Manager
Mount Prospect, IL, US, 60056
Position Summary:
We are seeking an accomplished and visionary AWSG Accelerated Lab Director to lead and expand our weathering testing services and laboratory operations. This role is ideal for a weathering testing or materials science professional and Ph.D. chemist with a proven track record of building high-performance teams, launching and scaling laboratories, and driving multimillion-dollar growth through innovation, compliance, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will bring a unique blend of scientific expertise and business acumen to optimize lab efficiency, ensure regulatory compliance, and expand service capabilities across multiple sectors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership & Division Management
- Lead the development and expansion of environmental and laboratory service divisions.
- Oversee startup and scale-up of new lab facilities and service lines.
- Align multi-disciplinary testing services under a unified Quality Management System (QMS).
- Drive revenue growth through strategic planning, client acquisition, and service innovation.
- Operational Excellence
- Manage multi-site laboratory operations focused on material durability and accelerated weathering testing.
- Implement and optimize Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
- Ensure compliance with ISO, OSHA, and other regulatory standards.
- Foster a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and operational efficiency.
- Quality & Compliance
- Develop and maintain robust QA/QC programs and quality systems.
- Lead audits, certifications, and regulatory filings.
- Technical Oversight
- Ensure scientific validity and technical accuracy of all testing procedures and results.
- Lead the development and validation of new test methods and custom testing equipment.
- Stay informed of advancements in weathering technologies and materials science.
- Team Development & Client Engagement
- Recruit, train, and mentor high-performing technical and administrative teams.
- Serve as the primary technical liaison for key clients and stakeholders.
- Deliver client-focused solutions and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Support business development through technical consultations and proposal development.
- Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and public forums.
Requirements for Consideration:
- Education & Credentials
- Master’s or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field (required).
- 10+ years of progressive leadership in laboratory operations, testing consulting, and regulatory compliance.
- Proven success in launching and scaling laboratory divisions with multimillion-dollar budgets.
- Experience with LIMS implementation, M&A integration, and cross-sector regulatory compliance.
- Expertise in accelerated weathering testing, materials durability, or environmental simulation.
- Technical Expertise
- Proficiency in analytical instrumentation (e.g., Spectrophotometers, Gloss Meters, data loggers).
- Strong background in QA/QC systems, SOP development, and process optimization.
- Experience with polymer degradation, coatings, or automotive materials testing is a plus.
- Familiarity with international testing standards and global regulatory frameworks.
- Six Sigma or Lean certification preferred.
- Leadership & Communication
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects
- Excellent communication skills, including public speaking and client consultation
- Ability to translate technical knowledge into actionable business strategies
Nearest Major Market: Chicago