XRD Technical Lead - Analytical Operations

Company DescriptionWe are SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.Job DescriptionLead the Science. Shape the Workflow. Set the Standard.Our East Syracuse, NY laboratory is seeking an experienced XRD Technical Lead to supervise and grow a high-performing analytical testing team. This role is ideal for a hands-on analytical chemist who enjoys balancing technical problem-solving, team leadership, and operational excellence in a production laboratory environment.As the XRD Technical Lead - Analytical Operations, you will own day-to-day laboratory operations, guide analysts and technicians, and ensure high-quality, compliant data delivery-while actively promoting a strong culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.What You'll Lead & OwnXRD Laboratory OperationsLead daily XRD laboratory operations to meet turnaround time, throughput, and data quality objectivesCoordinate workflow and sample prioritization to ensure production targets are consistently achievedApply expert technical judgment to identify and resolve analytical or workflow challengesEnsure accurate sample tracking, processing, and documentation within LIMSMonitor instrument utilization and staffing alignment to maximize operational efficiencyTeam Leadership & DevelopmentSupervise, coach, and mentor analysts and technicians through clear expectations and hands-on leadershipPartner with Team Leads, Senior Analysts, and the Laboratory Manager to support hiring, onboarding, and trainingAssist in developing junior analysts into fully productive XRD contributorsManage daily performance, address issues proactively, and model strong leadership behaviorsQuality, Safety & Continuous ImprovementChampion a safety-first laboratory culture and ensure adherence to all safety protocolsAddress safety concerns immediately (e.g., hood use, PPE compliance, chemical handling)Implement and reinforce best practices to ensure data quality meets or exceeds industry standardsMaintain appropriate operating supplies and communicate potential risks or issues to managementQualificationsRequired:Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, or equivalent education and experience4+ years of experience in analytical testing laboratoriesHands-on XRD experience in a production or analytical environmentStrong understanding of laboratory workflows, process optimization, and sample lifecycle managementExperience applying technical judgment to troubleshoot analytical challengesKnowledge of environmental testing protocols, regulations, and certificationsProficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)Advanced English language skills (written and verbal)Strongly Preferred:Prior experience supervising, leading, or mentoring laboratory staffExperience working in a high-throughput or production-driven labFamiliarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)Why Join UsOpportunity to lead a specialized XRD analytical team with real operational impactStable, growth-oriented laboratory environmentCollaborative leadership culture with visibility to managementCompetitive compensation and comprehensive benefitsCompensation & BenefitsSalary Range: $65,000 - $75,000 (based on experience)Schedule: Full-time | Exempt (not overtime eligible)Immediate eligibility for 401(k) retirement planPaid vacationFour (4) floating holidays annuallySeven (7) paid company holidaysSick time accrualEligibility for company benefit programs starting the first of the month following hireRelocation assistance may be considered for qualified candidates with strong XRD experience.Additional InformationSGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.If you are applying for a position within the United States and you have difficulty completing the on-line employment application because of a disability, please call 201-508-3149 for assistance and leave a message. You will receive a call back. Please note, this phone number is not for general employment information, but is only for individuals who are experiencing difficulty applying for a position due to a disability.