Job offer - Laboratory manager for Analytical method development and Quality control
About Nutreco
Nutreco is a leading global animal nutrition company offering solutions that go beyond nutrition. We support our customers to produce more feed in a sustainable way to feed the growing population. [www.nutreco.com].
In 2021, Nutreco established the Nutreco Exploration (NutEx; Nutreco Exploration - Nutreco Corporate) group who develops novel and proprietary ultra-specialty ingredients and empowers development of innovative functional feeds.
In order to discover novel ideas and develop them into exclusive ingredients, NutEx engages in two programs, i.e., phytotechnology and microtechnology.
For the phytotechnology program, Nutreco founded a Competence Center for Medicinal Plant Solutions (Nutreco Garden of the Future = NuGaFu). Located in Switzerland’s phytovalley near the Austrian and German border, the Center commands state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities allowing the conduct of all activities required for the discovery and development of PhytoComplexes used in the feed industry (bioactivity modelling facilities, phytochemistry laboratory, in vitro propagation laboratory, plant breeding greenhouse, medicinal plant exhibition garden, experimental field station for plant domestication work).
In this position you will lead and oversee analytical development and quality control activities for our PhytoComplexes, branded EGDEOS.
This role involves the development and validation of analytical methods to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and compliance of testing procedures. The manager will lead a team of analysts and technicians, ensuring efficient sample preparation, precise analysis, and continuous improvement of lab operations.
Key responsibilities:
· Design, optimize, and validate analytical methods with a focus on High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and other relevant techniques, to ensure consistency and accuracy in plant phytochemical analysis and animal feed analysis.
· Interpret analytical results, troubleshoot discrepancies, and prepare comprehensive reports. Organizing quality control analysis in close collaboration with the production team. Responsible for stability studies. Write specific standard operations procedures (e.g. for analytical methods, operation and maintenance of lab equipment).
· Ensure proper functioning, calibration, and maintenance of analytical instruments to maintain operational integrity.
· Ensure all laboratory procedures adhere to regulatory standards, industry best practices, and internal quality policies.
· Supervise lab personnel, provide training on new techniques, and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Identify opportunities for improving efficiency and accuracy of lab procedures through technological advancements and methodological innovations. Contribute to the selection, qualification, and commissioning of new laboratory equipment.
Key Competencies & Requirements:
Proven proficiency in a wide range of analytical techniques, with focus on HPLC and different technique used in sample preparations (e.g., SPE, flash chromatography and others). Strong understanding of plant phytochemistry and its applications in quality control testing. Ability to conduct chemical analysis of animal feed formulations to ensure compliance and efficacy. Ability to troubleshoot analytical challenges and optimize testing procedures. Strong managerial skills to lead a diverse team and communicate findings effectively to stakeholders. Precision in analytical testing, data documentation, and reporting.
Further requirements:
Your analytical mindset allows you to stay focused and maintain clarity even in hectic situations. As part of a dynamic environment, you will be involved in a wide range of responsibilities—so flexibility, initiative, and a hands-on attitude are essential.
Your qualification & attributes:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in analytical or organic chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.
Several years of professional experience in an analytical laboratory, ideally in the food or feed sector.
You are fluent in English; knowledge of German is a plus.
This role will be based in Arbon, Switzerland; local labor conditions apply.
We offer a highly creative, diverse, scientific, and imaginative environment with direct business impact and working in an interdisciplinary team with highly qualified, motivated people in a pleasant working environment and flexible working hours.
We are looking for an engaged, hands-on team member who is aiming to further develop her-/himself, the team, and the company.