Lab Manager

Overview

Job Title:

Lab Manager – Metalworking Fluids

Job Description:

Element Staffing is recruiting for a Lab Manager for a growing specialty chemical manufacturer in Northwest Houston. This position will lead formulation and development efforts for metalworking fluids while overseeing a small laboratory team.

The Lab Manager will be responsible for developing and optimizing metalworking fluid products including synthetics, semi-synthetics, soluble oils, rust preventatives, and cleaner/degreasers. This role requires strong hands-on formulation expertise, project ownership, and the ability to mentor technical staff.

This is a highly visible, direct hire opportunity reporting to senior technical leadership and offers long-term growth into a more strategic laboratory leadership role.

• Develop and optimize formulations for metalworking fluids including soluble oils, semi-synthetics, synthetics, rust preventatives, and cleaner/degreasers
• Research and evaluate raw materials including lubricants, surfactants, corrosion inhibitors, and additive packages
• Prepare laboratory samples and conduct performance testing to support product development and customization efforts
• Perform bench testing including specific gravity (hydrometer), pH, CIC and other corrosion tests, % concentration, TDS, and foam testing
• Record, analyze, and compare data from multiple sources to establish QC specifications and ensure accuracy and completeness
• Compile and organize R&D reports, competitive sample analyses, field sample reports, CoA’s, PDS, SDS, and related documentation
• Collect, label, organize, and store raw materials, retain samples, competitive products, and experimental materials
• Support scale-up efforts from laboratory to plant production
• Provide technical support to sales and production teams
• Direct and oversee the daily activities of one lab technician and one chemist
• Mentor and develop internal technical staff, including training on formulation strategy
• Maintain laboratory equipment, reagents, buffers, titration solutions, and supplies
• Ensure laboratory activities comply with company safety programs and applicable regulations
• Assist senior technical leadership with performance evaluations and coaching of lab personnel
• Other duties as assigned

• Years of
  
  Experience:
  
  5+ years of formulation experience in metalworking fluids required
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related field required
• Additional Requirements: Strong understanding of lubrication chemistry, surfactants, emulsified systems, and corrosion inhibitors
• Shift/Travel: M-F, days
• Compensation: $,000 base + 10–15% annual bonus