Laboratory Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION
This position leads the Built Environment Laboratory at our Northbrook campus - a lab focused on testing building materials and construction-related products (e.g., roofing systems, wall assemblies, structural components) in support of UL Solutions' Built Environment business. The Lab Manager is responsible for the management and daily operations of the lab, ensuring that all testing activities meet quality standards and customer expectations while aligning with business objectives. This is a hands-on leadership role overseeing a team of ~10 lab professionals, requiring strong organizational skills, technical expertise in construction product testing, and frequent customer interaction. The Lab Manager drives operational excellence in the lab - from scheduling and resource allocation to equipment upkeep and staff development - while maintaining a safe, efficient, and customer-focused environment.
Job Function:
Responsible for the overall management, scheduling, and operational performance of the Northbrook Built Environment lab. Develops and achieves operating plans and budgets for the lab, and ensures that testing services are delivered safely, accurately, and on time to meet customer needs and business goals. Partners with Engineering, Operations, and Business unit leaders to maintain high customer satisfaction and compliance with all quality and accreditation requirements.
RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lab Operations Oversight: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Built Environment testing laboratory, ensuring all test preparation, execution, and post-test activities are conducted safely and efficiently. Coordinate multiple test programs (for roofing, building materials, etc.) and manage the lab schedule so that projects progress smoothly with minimal bottlenecks. Adjust workloads and staffing as needed to meet project deadlines and optimize lab throughput.
• Scheduling & Resource Management: Establish and maintain effective scheduling processes for the lab. Make sure each incoming project is properly logged with a work order/project number and that test samples or specimens are on site and prepared well in advance of the test date. Allocate lab personnel and equipment across different test areas to ensure efficient utilization of resources and timely completion of all tests. If priorities change or unexpected issues arise, proactively reschedule or reassign resources to keep the lab running smoothly.
• Equipment & Facility Management: Manage the maintenance and availability of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment for a variety of building material tests. Oversee the acquisition of new equipment and the upkeep or calibration of existing machines to keep the lab at the forefront of testing technology. Ensure that all lab facilities are kept in safe working order. Identify opportunities to improve or share equipment.
• Quality & Safety Compliance: Enforce strict adherence to all quality, safety, and accreditation requirements within the lab. Ensure the lab's operations remain in full compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 and any other relevant accreditation standards or UL policies. Develop, update, and implement SOPs and safety protocols for all test activities.
• Team Leadership & Development: Lead and mentor the lab staff, including lab technicians and engineers. Define clear accountabilities and performance objectives, manage performance, and establish training and competency programs.
• Customer Engagement: Serve as a key point of contact for customers and internal clients who utilize the lab's services. Host witness tests or lab tours, explain procedures, maintain professionalism, and address customer concerns.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with engineering, logistics, program managers, and other labs within UL Solutions. Share best practices, coordinate equipment, communicate capacity, and engage in corporate initiatives.
• Continuous Improvement: Champion Lean Six Sigma principles and 5S practices to drive efficiency. Identify workflow improvements, track KPIs, and encourage team-driven ideas.
• Business Management & Reporting: Manage the lab's operating plans and budget. Monitor expenses, optimize resources, align capital projects with business objectives, and report performance metrics.
• Policy Adherence and Other Duties: Uphold UL's Code of Conduct, protect confidentiality, and serve as a role model for safety and professionalism. Take on additional responsibilities as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor's degree preferred but not required.
• Experience: 5-7 years in management in a construction or manufacturing environment; 3+ years of leadership experience; building materials testing strongly desired.
• Technical Expertise: Understanding of construction materials and/or manufacturing processes
• Leadership & Communication: Strong leadership, communication, and customer-facing skills.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple projects and maintain structured processes.
• Problem-Solving & Flexibility: Ability to troubleshoot issues quickly and adapt to unexpected changes.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Experience with Lean/Six Sigma.

Additional Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, LIMS systems, budgeting, and hands-on leadership.
• The Built Environment Lab Manager role ensures UL's testing services for building and construction products are delivered with excellence in safety, quality, and customer service.

Pay Transparency Verbiage:
Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career . The estimated salary range for this position is $69,000 to $92,000 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 10% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday including floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).
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