Job Description

Job Title:

Laboratory Manager - Construction Materials Testing

Department:

Materials Testing / Quality Assurance

Location:

Manchester

Reports To:

Technical / Operations Manager

Job Purpose:

To manage and oversee the day-to-day operations of the construction materials testing laboratory, ensuring that testing of soil, aggregates, asphalt, and concrete is carried out safely, accurately, and in compliance with relevant standards and client requirements. The Lab Manager will lead the laboratory team, maintain quality systems, and ensure that all results support the successful delivery of civil engineering and construction projects.

Key Responsibilities: Laboratory Operations

Manage the daily operation of the construction materials testing laboratory. Plan, allocate, and supervise workloads of lab and site technicians. Oversee testing of

soils, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt

in accordance with

BS, EN, ASTM

, or other relevant standards. Ensure that testing equipment is maintained, calibrated, and operating correctly. Verify test data, issue accurate and timely reports, and liaise with project teams and clients.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

Maintain and develop the laboratory's

Quality Management System (QMS)

in line with

UKAS ISO/IEC 17025

accreditation (or equivalent). Implement and monitor quality control procedures to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results. Conduct internal audits, participate in external audits, and ensure corrective actions are completed. Ensure full compliance with

health, safety, and environmental policies

.

Leadership & Team Development

Supervise, train, and mentor lab and field technicians to ensure high performance and technical competency. Conduct staff appraisals, manage scheduling, and support professional development. Promote a positive and safe working culture within the laboratory.

Client & Project Support

Liaise with clients, engineers, and contractors to discuss testing requirements, results, and technical issues. Provide expert advice on materials performance, compliance, and testing methodologies. Support tendering and project delivery through technical input and laboratory data management.

Qualifications & Experience:

Essential:

Degree or HNC/HND in

Civil Engineering

,

Materials Science

, or related discipline. Proven experience managing or supervising a

construction materials testing laboratory

. In-depth knowledge of testing procedures for

soils, aggregates, asphalt, and concrete

. Experience working to

UKAS ISO/IEC 17025

standards. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Desirable:

Membership of a professional body (e.g. ICE, IAT, CIHT, or equivalent). Experience in both

field and laboratory testing

environments. Working knowledge of

LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems)

.

Working Hours:

Full-time, typically 40 - 45 hours per week Occasional overtime or weekend work may be required depending on project demands

Career Progression:

Senior Laboratory Manager Technical Manager Quality or Compliance Manager
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: 40,000.00-50,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 40 - 45 per week

Work Location: In person