What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lab Manager position at Hixson Metal Finishing?
COMPANY OVERVIEW: Hixson Metal Finishing is a premier metal finishing company whose vision is rooted in excellence, integrity, and accountability. From our original location in Newport Beach, California, we have worked diligently since 1960 to demonstrate just how far these values extend by providing a broad range of services to the military, aerospace, and commercial aircraft communities with competitive prices, timely delivery, and outstanding quality.
We offer more than 80 finishing processes that run the gamut from simple “rack-and-run” jobs to very complex multi-process jobs, including anodizing, precious metals, cadmium and nickel plating, non-destructive testing, painting, and many more. A great source of pride for us is our persistent pursuit of improving our current processes and our willingness to develop new and innovative methods and technologies to meet the needs and expectations of our customers.
DEPARTMENT: Lab
POSITION ACCOUNTABLE TO: Operations Manager/Quality Director
POSITION TYPE: Full-time, salaried (Exempt)
JOB SUMMARY: The Lab Manager is responsible for overseeing the Chemistry Lab operations, including day-to-day metal finishing processes. Acting as a liaison between production and quality departments, the Lab Manager ensures effective communication and coordination. The role involves managing lab personnel, maintaining process chemistries, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
o Provide general oversight and support to the lab and technicians.
o Ensure adherence to test methods and laboratory procedures.
o Manage inventory of bulk and regent chemicals.
o Direct the proper preparation, storage, and use of controlled materials.
o Evaluate supplies and materials needed for testing and coordinate with the purchasing department.
o Keep accurate records and prepare timely summary reports of testing data.
o Troubleshoot instruments, equipment, and production processes, including tank solution performance.
o Perform routine analytical and physical process control testing and evaluate external test reports.
o Lead continuous improvement initiatives in the laboratory, including internal auditing and standards improvement.
o Manage organizational and team dynamics, customer satisfaction, and supplier relations.
o Act as the primary resource in issue identification, process review, and continuous improvement.
o Ensure process certification for Nadcap and other relevant certifications, maintaining system compliance.
o Participate in safety initiatives and promote a safe work culture.
o Provide training, oversight, and support to the lab, site departments, and management.
o Develop and propose annual budgets for chemicals, equipment, contracted services, and labor.
o Establish and maintain a solution control and performance testing database.
o Minimize process downtime through predictive solution maintenance, waste management, and procurement activities.
o Ensure compliance with hazardous waste management protocols in the laboratory.
o Participate in audits related to Nadcap, AS9100, and individual customer requirements.
o Identify and recommend safety, quality, and efficiency improvement opportunities using Lean Manufacturing principles.
o Monitor and implement corrective actions to improve department results and production processes.
o Participate in the implementation of new processes, including customer specification reviews and OEM audits.
o Collaborate with EHS to identify safety and environmental impacts and establish improvement goals.
o Interact with vendors, laboratories, and customers to communicate requirements and resolve issues.
o Audit or evaluate contracted laboratory service providers for quality system compliance.
o Perform new chemical request reviews and maintain the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) database.
o Motivate, coach, and develop employees.
o Manage lab personnel, projects, and performance across all sites in the region.
o Perform other duties as assigned by management.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
o Accountability, accuracy, and attention to detail.
o Effective oral and written communication skills.
o Creative thinking and problem-solving ability.
o Customer-oriented approach with adherence to procedures.
o Ethical conduct and integrity.
o Goal-oriented mindset and reliability.
o Initiative and ability to work under pressure.
o Strong time management and organizational skills.
o Responsible and able to be held accountable.
o Self-motivation and persistence.
PREFERRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:
o Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing techniques, 5S programs, 6 Sigma, AS9100, and Nadcap
o Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
o Experience in the Aerospace/Chemical Processing industry is a plus
REQUIRED EDUCATION/WORK EXPERIENCE:
o Bachelor’s degree in chemistry
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Newport Beach, CA 92663: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)
Application Question(s):
- Do you possess a bachelor's degree in chemistry?
Education:
- Bachelor's (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $75,000 - $90,000