Manager - Research Laboratory

Introduction

Hydro Aluminium Metal is a leading supplier of extrusion ingots, sheet ingots, foundry alloys, wire rods and high-purity aluminum with a global production network of around 5,000 employees. With primary metal production facilities in Europe, Canada, Australia, Brazil and Qatar, and recycling facilities throughout Europe and in the U.S., two-thirds of our primary aluminum production is based on renewable energy.

Hydro Aluminum Technology Center (HATC) Cassopolis, Michigan, at Hydro’s state-of-the-art remelter facility in NA is an accredited laboratory by A2LA, with the capability for advanced testing of mechanical properties, corrosion, and metallurgical investigations. As part of Hydro’s global network of laboratories and R&D centers, HATC provides critical performance testing data to support Hydro’s production facilities and customers in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico in offering high performance aluminium products into demanding end markets such as automotive. Our industry leading global R&D and customer support network also includes material and testing specialists at Karmøy and Sunndalsøra in Norway.

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the technology center for aluminum testing and analysis, collaborating closely with our customer technical service team and R&D organization, as well as with peer Laboratory Managers within the global laboratory organization.

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of materials testing and analysis laboratory, ensuring that all work is performed safely, efficiently, with technical excellence and in compliance with the ISO17025 accreditation requirements.
• Develop and enforce safety protocols and standard operating procedures, ensuring compliance with ISO 17025 and other relevant accreditation standards.
• Lead and mentor a team of materials professionals, fostering a culture of safety, quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Maintain and continuously improve the laboratory's competence and expertise in aluminum materials and testing, engage in R&D projects.
• Work closely with Commercial and Operation teams to address the customer needs for technical support.
• Manage the operation, maintenance, and investment of state-of-the-art lab equipment.
• Take ownership of financial results, including budgeting, cost and income control, and monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs) to achieve financial targets.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

• Strong background in materials testing and analysis, especially in the aluminum industry.
• Practical understanding of HSE regulations and best practices relevant to laboratory operations.
• Financial acumen and knowledge of budgeting, cost control, and KPI monitoring.
• Knowledge of quality systems such as ISO 9001, ISO 17025 accreditation, and other systems as required.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks.
• Strong leadership skills and experience managing a team.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or similar is required; an advanced degree in those fields is preferred.
• A minimum of 5-7 years in a laboratory environment are required. Two years of leadership experience are desirable.

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Hydro values diverse skills and perspectives among employees. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or disability. We strive to provide equal opportunities for all to contribute and succeed with us.