Laboratory Director - Chemistry

Crete Analytical Laboratory

Regular

MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 27 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.

If you want to contribute to an inspiring long-term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high-value market with significant build-up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment, join us!

YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE

We are looking for a Laboratory Director - Chemistry in 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, North Building, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to:

Mérieux NutriSciences (MXNS) is seeking a strategic and technically skilled leader to drive operational, financial, and scientific excellence as our next Laboratory Director – Chemistry. This is a critical leadership role with full accountability for the performance of our Chemistry department—including operations, quality, talent development, and business results. At MXNS, we are a trusted third-party analytical laboratory specializing in food safety and quality assurance through advanced testing. Our mission is to deliver accurate, timely, and compliant results to support the global food supply chain. We are seeking a visionary and experienced Laboratory Director to lead our food chemistry lab operations and uphold the highest scientific and regulatory standards.

About the Role

As Laboratory Director, you will be responsible for leading a high-performing, multidisciplinary chemistry team while managing the P&L and driving continuous improvement across the department. You’ll ensure technical rigor, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency, all while fostering a strong culture of scientific integrity and collaboration.

This is a hands-on leadership position suited for someone who thrives in a fast-paced lab environment, enjoys building teams, and knows their way around both a spreadsheet and a mass spectrometer.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of the Chemistry Department, including Wet Chemistry, Instrumental Chemistry, and specialized groups (e.g., Metals, Contaminants, Allergens, Sample Prep).

• 
  Own the P&L for the Chemistry business—monitor, manage, and improve financial performance.

• 
  Set strategic direction for operations, quality systems, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

• 
  Develop talent through coaching, feedback, and structured career growth opportunities.

• 
  Ensure compliance with internal protocols, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

• 
  Drive efficiency through process optimization and adoption of new technologies and methods. Ensuring KPIs on operations are met and routinely reviewed.

• 
  Partner cross-functionally with Sales, Customer Care, Product Management, and other labs to align service offerings and technical capabilities with client needs.

• 
  Represent the lab as a technical expert with key clients and external stakeholders.

YOUR PROFILE

What We’re Looking For

• Education: MS or PhD in Chemistry, Food Science, or related field.

• 
  Experience: 10 years in a chemistry laboratory setting, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Demonstrated success managing high-volume laboratory operations in a regulated environment. Strong operational understanding of key analytical instrumentation (HPLC, LCMS, GCMS, GC, ICPMS, etc.)

• 
  Business Acumen: Demonstrated success managing a P&L or departmental budget with direct financial oversight responsibility including, budgeting, cost analysis, and Capital expenditure creation.

• 
  Leadership: Proven ability to lead, inspire, and retain highly technical teams. Excellent people leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.

• 
  Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of food chemistry testing methodologies, 3rd party testing, regulatory requirements, and quality systems.

Communication Skills: Advanced ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly to both scientific and non-technical audiences.

Compensation Range:
$145,000 - $155,000
Potential bonus: Up to 15% based on performance.

The information above provides a general overview and may vary based on specific job responsibilities, location, or other factors. Details will be clarified during the hiring process.

#LI-EK1

WHY JOIN US?

• Because you would contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose, supported by long-term and visionary shareholders.
• Because you would have an impact on our strategic pillars that build on 50 years of experience and expertise.
• Because you would be part of a community of an enthusiastic and skilled group of people who love co-building together and serving a purpose bigger than them.
• Because you would be welcome as you are, in a diverse and open-minded environment that is rich in our singularities and differences.
• Because you would grow in an international group of more than 8200 fantastic team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share.

Ready for the journey?