Lab Manager

Overview

AHF Products is hiring a Lab Manager to be located in Crossville, TN. Reporting to the VP of Operations, this position is responsible for all laboratory activities, production, and personnel of the Lab/Paste Prep Department.

• Maintain accurate and current manufacturing specifications for the plant
• Monitor applications on production runs by reviewing run sheets or data collected during the run; compare spec sheets and note discrepancies or potential problems
• Determine when specifications need to be updated based on changes in equipment, materials, or techniques; maintain dialogue with production supervisors, R&D, and plant manager on issues or changes
• Accurately schedule and maintain availability of approved decoration materials for the Deco/Glaze lines
• Review current production schedule for items and quantities; compare with quantities needed for the run using up-to-date material databases
• Schedule material production, prioritize batching, review tests against standards, and ensure material is available for production prior to scheduled run time
• Maintain competent support staff and ensure staff training and ongoing updates on materials testing techniques; standardize testing between shifts and retrain as necessary
• Enable technicians to make informed decisions, including in the supervisor’s absence
• Ensure capability to batch correct glaze materials and body formulas through a standardized process
• Maintain reproducible formulas for Paste, Glaze, and Color Room; monitor formulas and make adjustments as needed
• Maintain organized records of formulas and production data; analyze trends and identify corrections
• Adjust or rework lab formulas to improve consistency; continuously analyze production data
• Monitor formulas for body colors or decorating materials and adjust as necessary
• Document every formula batched in the plant for history and review
• Determine, through regular analysis, which formulas require lab testing based on problem frequency and trends; perform tests and implement changes based on data
• Perform daily tests or tracking of production processes from raw materials to sorting
• Conduct SQC charting and daily/weekly tests as required
• Set daily, weekly, and monthly objectives and communicate them to employees
• Organize workflow by assigning responsibilities and preparing schedules
• Oversee and coach, train, and evaluate employees; ensure safe use of equipment and adherence to Preventative Maintenance schedules
• Check production output against department targets; submit daily and weekly reports
• Order needed equipment and supplies; communicate effectively with other departments and employees
• Ensure employees are properly trained and abide by safety guidelines; maintain accurate records
• Participate in hiring, recruit good candidates, and ensure proper training of employees
• Act as a resource for employees, listen to concerns, and address needs
• Communicate, adhere to, and enforce company policies and procedures
• Maintain housekeeping standards for a clean and safe workplace
• Perform any other duties as required or assigned

• Bachelor of Science degree in Ceramic Engineering or equivalent work experience in ceramic manufacturing, particularly tile
• Previous supervisory experience
• 2+ years of manufacturing plant experience
• Ability to create and follow schedules
• Organizational skills and accountability for plant practices
• Ability to compile, initiate, sort, and analyze production performance data; respond to requests
• Competency in Microsoft Office (Excel)
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Good interpersonal skills with employees, management, and vendors
• Ability to use company-specific computer applications and work in a team environment
• Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test, physical, and criminal background check

• Frequent climbing, bending, standing, walking 8+ hours daily; squatting, reaching, pushing and pulling
• Occasional lifting up to 80 pounds, alone or with assistance, per safety policies
• Dexterity for tool use
• Vision sufficient to see tools and equipment clearly
• Hearing with ear protection

• Think analytically, make decisions, develop options and implement solutions
• Work with a team; maintain regular attendance
• Attention to detail; effective communication
• Multitask in a fast-paced environment; work with a sense of urgency

AHF Products provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.