Analytical Quality Operations Supervisor (Chemical Manufacturing)
Location: Beaumont, TX
Reports to: Operations Manager
Compensation: $90,000 – $95,000 + bonus + benefits
At Chemtrade, safety, sustainability, and environmental stewardship guide every decision we make. We’re powered by a diverse team that values inclusion, innovation, and meaningful work. If you’re ready to lead a high-impact lab operation while mentoring talent and elevating product quality, this role is for you.
A day in the life
You start by scanning overnight control room results, prioritizing analyses, and coaching your team on method execution. Mid-morning, you verify test adherence, sign off on COAs for outgoing shipments, and coordinate SBS lot assignments with customers. After lunch, you tackle an out-of-spec investigation, document findings in DMS (SharePoint), and schedule a calibration. You close the day planning a Lean Six Sigma improvement, checking inventory levels, and confirming an external lab engagement.
What you’ll own
- Supervise daily operations for the Main Laboratory and Control Room Laboratory to ensure product quality and customer satisfaction; direct the work of one Laboratory Technician.
- Lead analytical testing for raw materials, in-process streams, and finished goods; ensure all analyses follow approved written procedures and compendia methods.
- Write, revise, and maintain laboratory SOPs; train Analysts and provide documented qualifications, including annual certification on compendia methods.
- Verify compliance with procedures; review and update test methods; coordinate outside laboratory testing and interpret results.
- Investigate OOS results; provide written documentation for the Operations Manager and retain records in DMS (SharePoint).
- Maintain instruments in good repair; schedule maintenance; execute vendor-recommended action plans; procure new equipment when needed.
- Manage laboratory inventories, obtain quotes, create purchase requisitions, and receive orders.
- Maintain customer specifications, issue COAs for each shipment, and update customer specifications in SAP.
- Collaborate closely with customers on quality topics; coordinate SBS lotting and shipments.
- Partner with Operations, Pumpers, Utility Mechanics, Traffic & Inventory Clerk, and Chemtrade Central Lab as needed; provide analytical support to troubleshoot plant operations.
- Analyze storm water and summarize data for the monthly DMR (Discharge Monitoring Report) submission.
- Introduce new laboratory chemicals and methods as needed; help ensure lab operations meet or exceed environmental and safety regulations.
Projects you’ll drive
- Interaction modeling of site-manufactured products, including setup, measurements, data evaluation, summary, and distribution.
- Method development and verification to meet customer specifications, partnering with instrumentation manufacturers and executing QA/QC for new procedures.
- Initiatives to reduce laboratory hazardous waste.
- Continuous improvement projects for the Main and Control Room Laboratories; implement new maintenance procedures/practices for lab equipment.
- Active participation in Lean Six Sigma events focused on process improvement.
Quality systems leadership
- Own the site’s NSF program: review raw materials, update registered formulations, maintain NSF files, submit annual samples, and interface with auditors.
- Oversee ISO-related laboratory calibration systems; train toward Chemtrade ISO auditor status.
- Lead the plant quality management system: interface with registrar and auditors, maintain corrective/preventive action (CAPA) systems, schedule internal audits, and facilitate quarterly management reviews.
Cross-coverage
Serve as backup to the Traffic & Inventory Coordinator during vacations/illness.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- 3–5 years of experience in chemicals manufacturing or a related environment.
- Demonstrated leadership and teamwork capabilities.
- Hands-on experience with calibration, troubleshooting instrument issues, and analytical methods.
- Strong attention to detail, adaptability, self-starter attitude, and effective verbal/written communication.
- Ability to work independently with sound judgment; strong math aptitude.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.
Preferred
- BS in Engineering.
- Experience with SAP S/4.
- Exposure to ISO 9001, RC 14001, or similar management systems.
- Basic understanding of Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA).
- Knowledge of plant operations and Statistical Process Control (SPC).
- Proficiency in SOP development and review.
Physical demands & work environment
- Frequent standing (including extended periods) and occasional stair climbing.
- Occasional lifting/moving up to 50 pounds.
- Close vision and color recognition are required.
- Capable of long periods of standing and sitting; must be fit for duty.
- Work collaboratively across labs; safety is a core job requirement.
- Adhere to all company safety requirements.
- Work in confined/awkward spaces, outdoor and noisy environments.
- Operate in areas with dust and chemical odors; able to work in adverse weather.
- Function effectively in a laboratory setting.
Why Chemtrade
We celebrate diverse perspectives and support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that foster belonging and idea sharing. We’re committed to work-life balance, family-friendly benefits, and clear pathways for career growth and advancement. Explore our Chemtrade Benefits Highlight Booklet — Come Work With Us.
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