Director of Operations at Analytical Food Laboratories

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionARE YOU A PROCESS-DRIVEN PROFESSIONAL WITH A PASSION FOR OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE? LOOK NO FURTHER -Tentamus North America is seeking a strategic, people-focused, and operationally driven Director of Operations to lead and elevate our laboratory operations at Analytical Food Laboratories in Grand Prairie, Texas. In this key executive leadership role, you'll oversee the daily activities of all laboratory areas-ensuring work is conducted safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with ISO/IEC 17025, GMP requirements, regulatory expectations, and the AFL Quality Management System (QMS).You'll champion operational integrity, support the growth and development of our laboratory teams, and drive process efficiency and continuous improvement across the organization. With responsibility for meeting AFL's turnaround time goals, quality standards, and strategic initiatives, this role is ideal for a leader who thrives in a fast-paced, science-centered environment and is passionate about strengthening the people, processes, and systems that keep our labs running at their best.WHAT YOU'LL DOAs the Director of Operations, you will collaborate extensively with the Chemistry Laboratory Manager, Microbiology Laboratory Manager, and Sample Management & Logistics leadership to ensure consistent operational execution, compliance, process development, staff training, and continuous improvement across all laboratory functions. (Position interfaces with the Quality Unit but does not override QA decisions related to compliance, validity of results, or release of data.)Responsibilities include: Operational Oversight & Performance ManagementProvide executive oversight of all laboratory operations, ensuring efficient workflow execution, operational integrity, and strict adherence to AFL policies, procedures, and all regulatory/accreditation requirements (ISO/IEC 17025, A2LA, USDA, FDA, etc.).Monitor and strengthen operational performance across all laboratory areas through structured process improvement, resource planning, workflow standardization, and effective allocation of personnel and equipment.Ensure laboratories consistently meet turnaround time (TAT) expectations, quality standards, and operational continuity, including equipment functionality, maintenance, calibration, and documentation of all service activities.Identify operational issues or gaps, escalate as appropriate, and present recommended solutions to leadership.Conduct regular operational meetings to communicate organizational goals, updates, and performance expectations clearly and consistently.Compliance, Quality Assurance & DocumentationEnsure all laboratory operations are executed safely and in full compliance with all regulatory bodies, accreditation standards, and the AFL Quality Management System (QMS).Oversee completion and documentation of all required quality activities, including training, internal/external audits, proficiency testing, corrective actions, and method qualifications.Review and evaluate nonconforming results; lead or support corrective action investigations and verify the effectiveness of implemented solutions.Review and approve laboratory procedures, operational processes, and documentation to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance across all test areas.Leadership Development & Personnel ManagementDevelop, guide, and support the laboratory leadership team through coaching, structured feedback, performance assessments, succession planning, and ongoing professional development.Oversee staffing planning and personnel management, including hiring, onboarding, scheduling, competency verification, and continuous training for laboratory personnel.Promote a collaborative, accountable, results-driven culture that supports communication, teamwork, and continuous improvement across all departments.Reporting, Collaboration & Customer SatisfactionReview operational outputs, data, and reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with internal standards and customer expectations.Provide operational summaries, performance metrics, and progress updates on strategic initiatives to the executive leadership team.Collaborate with internal departments to support process development, audits, technology enhancements, corrective actions, and organizational planning.Ensure customer satisfaction by maintaining accurate, timely laboratory results and effective coordination across teams to address operational or quality concerns promptly.Evaluate processes impacting customer outcomes and recommend improvements to enhance reliability, service quality, and turnaround time.SCHEDULEThis is a full–time, M –F, onsite position. This position is based at Analytical Food Laboratories in Grand Prairie, Texas. Applicants must be able to work on-site and either reside within a reasonable commuting distance to the onsite location or relocating to the area.QUALIFICATIONSOur ideal candidate will be authorized to work in the United States indefinitely, without restriction or sponsorship, and hold Bachelor's degree in a scientific, technical, or related field required. Advanced degree in a relevant discipline preferred.Other qualifications include: Minimum of 5 years of operational management experience within laboratory or regulated scientific environments.Demonstrated experience overseeing multiple laboratory functions, including personnel management, workflow execution, and regulatory compliance.Thorough knowledge of accreditation and regulatory standards, including ISO/IEC 17025, GMP, USDA accreditation, and applicable federal, state, or industry regulations. FDA -regulated preferred.Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop department leadership teams. Experience in staff performance management, succession planning, training programs, and competency documentation.Demonstrated ability to promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Expertise in process improvement, workflow optimization, and operational problem-solving in complex laboratory environments.Ability to manage resources, equipment, and technology to maintain consistent laboratory performance.Strong decision-making and organizational skills; ability to coordinate cross-departmental activities.Demonstrated commitment to meeting turnaround times, quality standards, and customer expectations through operational excellence and reliable service delivery.WHAT'S WAITING FOR YOU?Annual Salary between $120,000 - $130,000, and in addition we offer comprehensive and low-cost benefit plans (medical, HSA, dental, vision, disability, life insurance) Employee Assistance Program, PTO, and a matching 401k!ABOUT TENTAMUSLabs for Life®. We are a global network of full-service accredited analytical laboratories providing crucial quality and safety analysis for clients locally, nationally, and beyond using proven methods of chemistry and microbiology. Many of the products you use and consume daily rely on Tentamus labs. With 20 labs in the Americas and growing (100 globally), we celebrate having talented diverse scientific and service-oriented professionals. Tentamus Website | Tentamus North America LinkedIn | AFL LinkedInJob Posted by ApplicantPro