Chemistry Operations Manager - FDA Detention

Chemistry Operations Manager - FDA Detention

Gainesville Analytical Laboratory

Regular

MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 27 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.

If you want to contribute to an inspiring long-term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high-value market with significant build-up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment,
join us!

We are looking for a Chemistry Operations Manager - FDA Detention in 2183 SE Hawthorne Rd, Gainesville, FL 32641 USA. Your mission will be to:

The Operations Manager - FDA Detention Testing is responsible for leading a multidisciplinary chemistry team and ensuring operational excellence in all laboratory activities. This role is central to managing analytical chemistry services that support FDA detention testing, with a strong emphasis on compliance, accuracy, and timely execution. The Manager is accountable for overseeing laboratory operations, maintaining regulatory alignment, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that enhance both scientific and business performance.

This position requires deep expertise in analytical chemistry, strong leadership in managing high-performing teams, and proven success in balancing regulatory compliance, client expectations, and departmental financial health. The Laboratory Manager will serve as the key liaison to clients, FDA import officers, and internal stakeholders to ensure testing outcomes meet the highest standards of quality, integrity, and reliability.

• Provide overall leadership and operational management of analytical chemistry testing for FDA‑detained imports.
• Ensure strict compliance with FDA regulatory requirements, GLP, ISO/IEC 17025, and other relevant industry standards.
• Oversee laboratory workflows including sample receipt, testing, data analysis, quality review, reporting, and client communication.
• Lead the development, validation, and implementation of robust analytical methods across diverse product categories (e.g., food, dietary supplements, spices).
• Supervise, mentor, and train laboratory staff to ensure technical excellence, regulatory awareness, and professional growth.
• Review, interpret, and approve analytical results, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), and QA/QC documentation to ensure accuracy and integrity.
• Serve as the primary liaison with FDA import officers, clients, and internal teams, ensuring transparency in testing scope, timelines, and deliverables.
• Prepare for and lead internal audits while ensuring readiness for external inspections by regulatory authorities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing laboratory workflows, data integrity systems, and cost efficiency without compromising compliance.
• Oversee departmental P&L, ensuring financial accountability and sustainable business performance.
• Represent the company in client meetings, regulatory discussions, and industry forums with professionalism and scientific credibility.
• Ensure that all operations are conducted in alignment with ethical standards and the company's Code of Conduct.
• Other related duties as assigned.
• At any time, the incumbent must behave and operate in an ethical and Code of Conduct compliant manner.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in an analytical chemistry or regulatory testing laboratory.
• At least 3 years of proven supervisory or managerial experience in a laboratory environment.
• Demonstrated success in managing laboratory budgets, including cost control for reagents, instrumentation, and staffing.
• Strong knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), ISO standards (ISO/IEC 17025 preferred), and…