Lactalis Midwest Yogurt , part of the Lactalis family of companies, is currently hiring a Lab Systems Manager based in Murfreesboro, TN . Murfreesboro is a high performing, multi-platform non-union facility with over 300 employees leading the safe, high-quality production of a wide range of dairy products. This site supports the Midwest Yogurt business across over 10 production lines. The Laboratory Systems Manager will be responsible for the strategic oversight, governance, and continuous improvement of laboratory quality, compliance, and operational systems within the Murfreesboro Facility. This position will be responsible for the alignment of the Laboratory Control Plan to Lactalis Standards.
From your EXPERTISE to ours Key responsibilities for this position include:
- Provide overall leadership and governance for laboratory systems and operations, with direct oversight of the Laboratory Management Coordinator, Quality Analytical Specialist, and Laboratory personnel.
- Define, implement, and continuously improve laboratory management systems to ensure consistent, compliant, and reliable analytical and microbiological results.
- Establish clear expectations, performance standards, and accountability structures for laboratory execution and support functions.
- Own the laboratory quality assurance and quality control framework, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and company policies.
- Ensure laboratory testing programs, procedures, and schedules are designed, validated, and maintained to meet food safety, quality, and compliance objectives.
- Develop and implement systems for the lifecycle management of analytical equipment, including selection, validation, calibration, maintenance, and performance monitoring.
- Ensure laboratory equipment and methodologies remain scientifically sound, fit for purpose, and compliant with applicable standards.
- Review and approve technical changes, upgrades, or deviations impacting laboratory capability or compliance.
- Ensure systems are in place for accurate, complete, and traceable laboratory records, including test data, calibration logs, and training documentation.
- Oversee data integrity controls and documentation practices to support investigations, audits, and decision-making.
- Partner with Operations, Engineering, Logistics, and Quality leadership to align laboratory systems with plant objectives, product quality, and food safety goals.
- Proactively identify risks, gaps, and improvement opportunities within laboratory systems and implement sustainable corrective actions.
- Ensure robust laboratory training programs are designed and maintained, with clear competency requirements and role-based curricula.
- Coach and develop the Laboratory Management Coordinator to effectively manage daily laboratory operations and personnel.
- Promote a culture of quality, compliance, and continuous learning across the laboratory organization
- Own laboratory safety systems and ensure compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations.
- Develop and manage the laboratory budget, ensuring effective use of resources while supporting operational and compliance needs.
- Plan for future laboratory capability, staffing, and capital requirements aligned with business growth and risk profile.
- Stay current on regulatory changes, scientific advancements, and industry best practices impacting laboratory operations.
- Translate external requirements into practical, compliant laboratory systems and procedures.
- Champion a strong culture of quality, food safety, and compliance throughout the facility.
Requirements
From your STORY to ours Qualified applicants will contribute the following:
- 5+ years of experience in a laboratory setting within a manufacturing environment (preferably food processing). Experience leading a laboratory team is highly preferred.
- Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Laboratory or Food Science
- Proven ability to lead and motivate a team, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
- Strong understanding of laboratory testing principles, GMPs, and relevant quality control regulations.
- Experience with laboratory equipment and testing methodologies.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to flex work schedule when required to support a 24/7 manufacturing operation. This includes weekend on-call support and occasional early/late work hours.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's Degree in Engineering, Laboratory or Food Science
At Lactalis, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Program with a variety of affordable benefits and coverage options. We support insurance costs significantly, contribute generously to retirement plans, and offer Paid Time Off from day one. We are committed to your professional growth, providing training and development opportunities, including Education Reimbursement. Join us and grow your career.
