Site Manager (Metallurgical & Materials Testing)

The Site Manager is responsible for overseeing daily operations within the metallurgical and materials testing laboratory. This role ensures the efficient execution of testing services, adherence to quality standards (ISO 17025, Nadcap, ASTM, etc.), client satisfaction, and compliance with safety and environmental regulations. The manager will lead a team of technicians, engineers, and quality personnel to optimize productivity, manage resources, and drive continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Manage day-to-day operations of metallurgical and materials testing, including mechanical, chemical, metallographic, and corrosion testing.
• Oversee scheduling, workload distribution, and turnaround times to meet customer commitments.
• Ensure compliance with test standards (ASTM, ISO, AMS, SAE) and laboratory accreditation requirements (ISO/IEC 17025, Nadcap).
• Maintain and improve laboratory efficiency through process optimization, equipment utilization, and resource management.

Team Management

• Supervise and develop laboratory personnel including metallurgists, lab technicians, and administrative staff.
• Promote a culture of safety, quality, and accountability.
• Conduct performance reviews, training, and cross-training initiatives to build technical capability.

Quality & Compliance

• Work closely with the Quality Manager to uphold testing integrity, traceability, and documentation standards.
• Review and approve test reports and certificates of conformance.
• Participate in internal and external audits; support corrective and preventive actions.
• Maintain compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) policies.

Client & Project Management

• Serve as the operational point of contact for customers on scheduling, technical inquiries, and project updates.
• Coordinate with sales and customer service to ensure clear communication of capabilities, timelines, and deliverables.
• Support proposal development and cost estimation for new testing projects.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements and automation to enhance turnaround time and quality.
• Track KPIs such as throughput, on-time delivery, nonconformances, and customer satisfaction.
• Lead initiatives in lean manufacturing, 5S, and root-cause problem-solving.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).

Experience:

• 7+ years in materials or metallurgical testing environment, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven experience in an ISO 17025 or Nadcap-accredited laboratory.
• Strong knowledge of metallurgical principles, materials characterization, and failure analysis.
• Experience managing technical teams and laboratory operations.

Skills:

• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of quality management systems.
• Proficiency in laboratory management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to interpret technical standards and specifications (ASTM, SAE, MIL, etc.).

Work Environment

• Laboratory and office setting; may include occasional exposure to testing areas with heat, noise, or chemical hazards.
• Occasional travel to customers, suppliers, or audit locations may be required.