As a key member of the team, the Laboratory Manager plays a vital role in delivering high-quality asbestos sampling and analysis services across a range of field environments. This position combines hands‑on operational work with leadership of the laboratory function, ensuring the delivery of accurate, timely results while supporting the organisation's quality and compliance systems.
This is an opportunity to join a rapidly growing specialist consultancy. As one of the organisation's key hires, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to help shape the future direction of the laboratory, influence operational processes, and grow with the business as it continues to expand.
This position can accommodate candidates relocating to Brisbane from interstate or New Zealand.
Operational & Client-Facing Responsibilities
- Conduct asbestos inspections and representative sample collection across residential, commercial and industrial sites.
- Complete field sampling in accordance with SOPs, WHS requirements and PPE standards.
- Manage sample chain-of-custody procedures.
- Conduct asbestos fibre identification using PLM and stereo microscopy in accordance with AS 4964, AS 5370 and internal SOPs.
- Oversee laboratory compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
- Deliver effective analysis, including same-day results where possible.
- Communicate findings and testing results clearly to clients.
- Support training and mentoring of junior field staff.
Management Systems & Compliance Responsibilities
- Follow documented SOPs, quality procedures and laboratory requirements.
- Maintain accurate field and laboratory records in line with ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO 9001.
- Support audits through accurate documentation and evidence collection.
- Contribute to risk assessments, corrective actions and continuous improvement.
- Provide feedback on operational controls, procedures and workflows.
- Assist with non-conformance management and assigned improvement initiatives.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- A relevant tertiary qualification together with practical asbestos fibre identification experience; or
- Five years' directly relevant industry experience demonstrating equivalent technical competency.
- Proven experience in asbestos fibre identification using stereo microscopy and PLM techniques.
- The ability to successfully meet laboratory proficiency testing requirements.
- Strong organisational and reporting skills, with the ability to produce accurate technical documentation.
- A practical, hands‑on approach with excellent communication and client relationship skills.
- The drive to contribute to a growing business and take advantage of future leadership and career development opportunities as the organisation continues to evolve.
The role offers a high degree of autonomy, supported by established reporting software and administrative resources that assist with scheduling and workflow management.