Laboratory Manager

Paterson & Cooke Canada Inc. is seeking a
Laboratory Manager
to lead the daily operations of our Sudbury-based laboratory. The successful candidate may be a Senior Technologist or Intermediate/Senior Engineer with a strong background in laboratory management, project coordination, and technical problem solving.

This position is a
full-time, in-office
role located in
Sudbury, Ontario
. Given the requirements of this position, remote work is not available. While the position is largely in-office, occasional site visits will be required to domestic and international mine sites, as required.

The Laboratory Manager will oversee the safety, planning, execution, and quality of laboratory test programs supporting Paterson & Cooke's global engineering and consulting work in the mining industry. This includes managing laboratory staff, maintaining equipment and safety standards, developing procedures, coordinating project deliverables, and enhancing efficiency in our laboratory work. The successful candidate should have an
entrepreneurial spirit
and a keen ability to unite and motivate staff around a common goal of advancing our laboratory capabilities in a balanced and strategic manner. We envision our laboratory as a place where talented individuals can build lasting careers, be technically challenged, and be rewarded for their contributions.

Tasks

• Enforce and promote health and safety policies, fostering a culture of safety and accountability
• Oversee daily operations of the laboratory, including scheduling, resource allocation, and quality control
• Operate the laboratory as its own business unit within P&C Canada, managing revenue, costs, and adjusting lab units annually to keep the business profitable
• Manage laboratory personnel, including career reviews, mentoring, review of timesheets and expenses, approval of vacations and sick time, and overall team development
• Proactively hire, train, and supervise laboratory technologists and technicians
• Perform hands-on physical work in a laboratory setting, including equipment setup, maintenance, and material handling in a safe and efficient manner
• Lead the preparation and review of laboratory project proposals, budgets, and cost estimates. Support the laboratory aspect of similar proposals prepared as part of larger engineering projects
• Collaborate with colleagues in a professional manner, acting as one united team, in achieving project and/or strategic goals
• Coordinate laboratory testing programs in support of internal and client-driven projects
• Review and approve laboratory data and ensure quality assurance in all deliverables
• Maintain and improve laboratory procedures, ensuring compliance with company and industry standards
• Prepare proposals, technical reports and presentations
• Oversee procurement, inventory control, and maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Foster a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, and accountability within the laboratory team
• Drive continuous improvement through the evaluation and implementation of new technologies or methods
• Collaborate with other Paterson & Cooke laboratories across North America and Globally to maintain consistency in technical and operational standards
• Gain an appreciation for the services offered by P&C and carry out business development through interactions with clients and contacts in the mining industry

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to ensure the effective and efficient operation of the Sudbury laboratory
• Manage project budgets, schedules, and resource plans, taking ownership and accountability for project outcomes
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and operational procedures
• Mentor and develop laboratory staff, fostering a culture of teamwork and technical excellence
• Actively contribute to the growth and strategic direction of Paterson & Cooke's laboratory services
• Ongoing professional development
• When on site or in the laboratory, lead by example; practicing safe behaviour and habits
• Take a concept or new test program and build the necessary infrastructure in the lab to contribute to continued growth of new capabilities

Minimum Requirements and Competencies:

• Degree or diploma in Engineering or Applied Science/Technology (Chemical, Metallurgical, Mechanical, Materials, or related field preferred)
• Minimum 5+ years of relevant experience in laboratory management, testing, or related technical operations
• Demonstrated experience leading teams and managing projects
• Strong technical aptitude with experience in materials testing, equipment operation, and data analysis
• Strong practical skills with demonstrated hands-on aptitude to diagnose issues, refine processes, and design or modify laboratory equipment to meet project needs
• Proven organizational skills with attention to detail and quality assurance
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Fluent in English, both written and oral. Fluency in French or Spanish is considered an asset
• Strong computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams, etc.)
• Commitment to safety and continuous improvement
• Eligible to work in Canada
• Valid Ontario driver's license
• Valid passport
• Valid forklift operator license is considered an asset

Personal Characteristics

• Highly organized and self-motivated
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail, advocating for accuracy and quality in all work
• Ability to work hard, act professionally, and make decisions independently
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with a keen ability to motivate and unite staff
• Proficient in multi-tasking, prioritizing, and managing time effectively
• Commitment to quality, safety, professional integrity, and technical excellence
• Enjoy working in a collaborative, hands-on environment

A Career with Paterson & Cooke

Paterson & Cooke is an employee-owned, international specialist engineering firm known for high quality work and exceeding client expectations, often with innovative solutions. Our team enjoy the challenge of living up to this reputation daily, in a workplace that allows each employee to thrive and grow. In the Sudbury office, we balance a demanding, rewarding workload with consideration for work-life balance. We follow a unique work schedule that provides, on average, every other Friday off, with dates set in advance to align with long weekends for the benefit of our team. We enjoy the opportunity to connect outside the office through summer BBQ's, sports, and spontaneous gatherings to celebrate milestones – or just the end of the week. We encourage employees to expand their knowledge through employer supported training courses and on-site experience. With offices covering five continents and an international clientele, P&C provides opportunities for our employees to travel the world. Our size enables our employees to make a difference in the company and fosters opportunities for career growth and advancement. Our aim is to create an environment in which everyone is technically challenged and eager to come to work.