About the role

We are seeking an experienced and driven Laboratory Operational Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our cutting-edge animal genotyping and food safety laboratory in Bundamba.

Reporting to the Sr Director of Global Genomics Laboratory Operations, this is a senior leadership role responsible for the safe, compliant and efficient operation of our testing laboratory, facilities and automation functions. You will lead a team of approximately 30 employees while partnering cross-functionally with Sales, Customer Service, Finance, Quality, IT and other business functions to deliver outstanding outcomes for both our customers and the broader business.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a seasoned operations leader who thrives in a high-performing scientific environment and is passionate about people, process and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities

- Lead all testing laboratory, facilities and automation operations to deliver protected, compliant, efficient and customer-focused services
- Manage and develop a team of approximately 30 employees, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and operational excellence
- Drive performance against key operational metrics including quality, productivity, turnaround time, service levels and cost management
- Ensure compliance with quality, regulatory, safety and accreditation requirements, maintaining ongoing audit readiness
- Oversee facility infrastructure, equipment reliability and automation systems to support current operations and future growth
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, scalability and customer experience
- Develop and manage operational budgets, monitor expenditures and identify opportunities to improve financial performance
- Build organisational capability through workforce planning, talent development, succession planning and cross-training
- Partner with the Quality Manager to support ISO procedures, including development, documentation and execution




- Lead internal and external audit preparations and implement corrective actions as required
- Generate operational reports and present performance metrics to key stakeholders
- Serve as a key leader in strategic projects, business transformations and cross-functional initiatives

About you You are a confident and collaborative operations leader with a strong background in laboratory environments. You bring both the technical knowledge and the people leadership skills needed to drive performance, maintain compliance and build a high-functioning team.

You will bring

- A Bachelor's degree in genetics, molecular biology, biology or a related field (advanced graduate degree preferred)
- Minimum 2–3 years of professional experience in a laboratory operations or management role
- Demonstrated experience leading teams in a scientific or technical environment
- Strong understanding of quality systems, regulatory compliance and accreditation standards (ISO experience highly regarded)
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving and organisational skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word; experience with laboratory management systems advantageous
- A proactive approach to continuous improvement, with sound commercial and operational judgement

Why Join Neogen? At Neogen, you'll step into a global organisation operating in over 40 countries, with the opportunity to make a genuine impact on the quality and efficiency of our Australian laboratory operations. This role offers real leadership scope overseeing a team and influencing strategic decisions that shape our operational future. You'll work in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment alongside passionate scientists and business professionals, with access to professional development and the backing of a global network.

Most importantly, you'll be part of an organisation committed to making the world a safer place through science, innovation and quality.

📌 Laboratory Operational Manager (Bundamba)
🏢 Neogen Australasia
📍 Bundamba