Guardian Energy in Lima, OH has an opening for a Lab Manager. As a lab manager you would be responsible for managing the quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program for the ethanol plant to ensure maximum production quantity and quality, while supporting policies, goals, and objectives of the company. Job Duties: 1. Manage plant QA/QC program. • Initiate and implement plant QA/QC program based on best practice in the ethanol industry. • Monitor use and inventories of laboratory chemicals and supplies. Initiate re-ordering when necessary. • Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment. • Prepare reports, analyze data and make recommendations for improving operation or solving process related problems. • Sample various points in the process and conducts QA/QC tests as required. 2. Order Process Chemicals as needed. • Monitor usage of chemicals used in fermentation to ensure an adequate supply. • Negotiate prices and terms to maximize earnings. 3. Supervise laboratory technician and/or Utility Operators. • Ensure that technicians are adequately trained, equipped and motivated, so that QA/QC program can be accomplished in a safe, timely and cost-effective manner. • Assist with hiring of laboratory personnel. • Assist Plant Manager with conducting employee performance reviews based on job descriptions to determine competency, knowledge and contribution of the process operators. • Maintain and update operating and training manuals for the QA laboratory. Ensure that technicians are trained on the most updated version of the operating procedures. 4. Monitor plant QA/QC parameters. • Review the operation of the plant constantly to monitor production and quality, to anticipate problems and solve in a timely manner, and to identify opportunities for improvement. • Initiate and carry out projects that improve efficiency, production, and/or reduce operating costs. • Maintain adequate records on a daily, weekly and monthly basis, of key QA/QC variables. 5. Maintain safety, health and environmental policies and procedures. • Ensure county, state, and federal regulations relating to the QA laboratory are met at all times. • Direct, maintain, and enforce the safety program for the QA laboratory; review safety records to uphold standards of maximum safety for all laboratory technicians. • Ensure effective participation by the process operators in the implementation of QA/QC policies and procedures. • Maintain environmental control program including testing and reporting as required by regulatory agencies.

Education/Certification: Bachelor’s degree from four year college/university in a related scientific or technical field Required Knowledge & Experience: • 3-5 years experience in a QA laboratory in a dry-mill ethanol plant or related industry preferred • Experience with implementing effective QA/QC programs. • In-depth knowledge of mashing, fermentation and distillation as they relate to the ethanol production process • Experience with environmental testing and reporting • Knowledge of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) • Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite required. • Knowledge of statistical software required, JMP Statistical Software preferred. • Knowledge of general office equipment required. • Valid Driver’s License required. Skills/Abilities: • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Strong basic math and statistic skills • Ability to operate and maintain industrial laboratory equipment. • Ability to interact professionally and effectively with internal and external customers. • Ability to maintain good relationships with internal and external customers, use tact and diplomacy, and possess a customer service focus. • Strong analytical abilities, problem solving skills, negotiation skills, dispute resolution and ability to overcome obstacles. • Manage multiple priorities with efficiency and accuracy • Ability to anticipate needs and accomplish necessary tasks • Strong motivational ability • Act with honesty and integrity PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF THIS POSITION Time will be spent in a temperature-controlled office-based environment at the Laboratory office within the plant. Ability to sit for long periods of time. Able to view computer screen for lengths at a time. Some time will be spent in the plant. All types of chemical industry equipment are used in the plant to include, but not limited to fermentation vessels, jet cookers, agitators, mixing and milling equipment, distillation columns, centrifuges and distributive control systems. May be exposed to loud noises, wet and humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic chemicals, extreme hot and cold depending on weather conditions. Must be able to speak and listen clearly. Fine visual acuity to read for accuracy. For more detail please review the ADA questionnaire on file in Human Resources. PHYSICAL STRENGTH: This job may require lifting of up to 50 pounds occasionally.

We offer full benefits to include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short term and long-term disability, paid vacation and paid holidays.