Laboratory & Quality Manager
Location: Billingham, Co Durham
Contract Type: Contract or Temp
Closing Date: Feb 5th, 2026
Ref: 1639532
This is an opportunity to join a well-established site at a point of change, where calm leadership and good judgement will make a real difference.
The business is looking to appoint a
Laboratory & Quality Manager on an initial temporary basis, with a clear intention for the role to move into a permanent position. The focus is on continuity, stability and setting the function up well for the future.
This opportunity offers immediate responsibility, visibility across the site, and the chance to shape how the laboratory and quality function operates long-term.
The role is days Monday to Friday, and works closely with production, technical and SHE colleagues.
What you’ll step into You’ll take responsibility for a small, experienced laboratory team and an established quality framework. The emphasis is on supporting the team, keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly, and ensuring the site remains audit-ready throughout a period of transition.
What you’ll be responsible for · Leading a team of laboratory analysts working across a two-shift pattern
· Providing day-to-day oversight of laboratory operations and workload planning
· Owning quality systems, documentation and audit readiness
· Managing ISO compliance, including ISO 9001 and IATF 16949
· Leading internal and customer audits and continuous improvement activity
· Managing laboratory budgets and external service contracts
· Acting as a technical and quality interface with internal stakeholders and customers
What will help you succeed · A degree in chemistry or a related scientific discipline (or equivalent experience)
· Experience in a laboratory environment within chemical or regulated manufacturing
· Practical experience working with quality systems and audits
· Confidence working with people, priorities and change
· A calm, structured approach and the ability to bring clarity where needed
Experience with SAP and laboratory systems such as Chromeleon or LabWare would be useful, but isn’t essential.
Interested? If you’re looking for a role where you can provide stability and play a key part in shaping the future of a quality function, we’d be delighted to talk.
To find out more about the business, the role and the remuneration package, talk in confidence to
Steve Guest at Wolviston Management Services.
