Lab Manager

Oxford PV is seeking an Operations Team Leader within our solar research facility in Oxford. Reporting directly to the Department Manager of R&D Operations & Engineering, this role is crucial for ensuring the effective running of the R&D Operations Team. Responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day laboratory operations, managing personnel and equipment scheduling, and providing line management for a team of 14 technicians. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, possess strong leadership skills, and have experience in team management and development within an R&D laboratory setting.
What will you be doing?
You will be responsible for:
Ensuring the R&D operations team and laboratory operate with maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
Overseeing daily and weekly equipment and personnel scheduling.
Providing line management and supervision for a medium-sized lab operations team, including:
Motivating and supporting staff development.
Ensuring comprehensive training for all team members.
Setting a high standard of professional behaviour for the team
Inspiring and empowering staff to excel and meet their objectives.
Fostering close collaboration between the Operations team and the R&D Engineering teams.
Maintaining a safe working environment in all lab areas including:
Ensuring compliance with current Health and Safety procedures.
Promptly addressing any health and safety breaches, and ensuring proper recording and reporting to the Health and Safety Committee.
Conducting random spot checks to verify adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Managing necessary laboratory administration, including approving purchase requests for materials and consumables stock.
Acting as the primary point of contact for all lab visitors, coordinating visits, and conducting tours as needed.
Providing inductions for all lab visitors and new team members, ensuring adherence to lab rules and safety protocols, and issuing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Implementation of a continuous long-term improvement process.
Contributing to and ensuring compliance with the operations team budget.
What will you need to succeed in the role?
Strong experience of managing, motivating and developing an ambitious team including supporting professional development and growth.
Experienced in leading the effective operation of a laboratory environment including adherence to good laboratory practices
Educated to degree level or equivalent.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Proactive in early detection of and preventing H&S issues, plus resolving them with minimal supervision.
Strong organisation and prioritisation skills
The ability to react and solve problems in a fast-paced R&D environment
An engineering background would be desirable
What will we offer you in return?
Private health and wellbeing scheme available from the first day you join us.
Company pension scheme
Employee Assistance Programme – to support you at your moments of need.
Life assurance scheme 4 x base salary – to offer you peace of mind.
Professional memberships and training opportunities
Social events
Cycle-to-work scheme - to help you go green and get fit as you travel to work.
Free on-site parking
A fast-paced work environment in a growing international company
A chance to make a difference by joining our employee committees built around our values.
The opportunity to experience and support many parts of the business.
Oxford PV is an Equal Opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, transgender status, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
Please note this role is site based in our Yarnton office.
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