Quality Lab Manager

A leading manufacturer in the consumer goods sector is seeking an experienced Quality Lab Manager to lead microbiology and hygiene programs at a high-volume manufacturing facility. This role is ideal for a hands-on quality professional with deep industrial microbiology experience who enjoys partnering with operations, R&D, and global quality teams to drive food/consumer product safety, compliance, and continuous improvement. This role is based out of the Bowling Green, KY area.Key Responsibilities:Lead and manage the quality control laboratory, with a strong emphasis on microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, and hygiene programsOwn microbiological reporting, trending, data analysis, and KPIs; take proactive action on adverse trendsLead investigations into out-of-specification (OOS) microbiological results and drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs)Culture and identify microorganisms using traditional and automated methods; translate findings into practical plant solutionsDevelop, maintain, and train teams on microbiology procedures, hygiene standards, and GMPsPartner with operations to define and improve quality procedures, control plans, and documentation systemsSupport and lead internal, customer, and third-party audits, including microbiological and hygiene auditsDrive hygienic manufacturing practices, including equipment and facility hygienic design support for new or modified systemsCollaborate cross-functionally with R&D, engineering, and production on new product trials, innovations, and analytical method developmentManage supplier and customer quality complaints related to microbiology and hygieneLead continuous improvement initiatives tied to site and global quality objectivesQualifications:Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related field (Master's preferred).5+ years of experience in an industrial microbiology or quality laboratory environment for a manufacturing companySupervisory or management experience in a QC or microbiology labStrong experience with microbial labs, environmental monitoring programs, and microbiological investigationsWorking knowledge of GMPs, hygienic manufacturing principles, and risk assessmentsExperience identifying microorganisms using traditional and/or automated methodsProven ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive improvement in a manufacturing setting