Laboratory Operations Manager

Date:  Jul 9, 2025
Location: 

Lexington, KY, US, 40509

Work Location Type:  Onsite
Description: 

Why Valvoline Global Operations?
 
At Valvoline Global Operations, we’re proud to be The Original Motor Oil, but we’ve never rested on being first. Founded in 1866, we introduced the world’s first branded motor oil, staking our claim as a pioneer in the automotive and industrial solutions industry. Today, as an affiliate of Aramco, one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, we are driven by innovation and committed to creating sustainable solutions for a better future.

 

With a global presence, we develop future-ready products and provide best-in-class services for our partners around the world. For us, originality isn’t just about where we began; it’s about where we’re headed and how we’ll lead the way. We are originality in motion.

 

Our corporate values—Care, Integrity, Passion, Unity, and Excellence—are at the heart of everything we do. These values define how we operate, how we treat one another, and how we engage with our partners, customers, and the communities we serve. At Valvoline Global, we are united in our commitment to:

 

•    Treating everyone with care.
•    Acting with unwavering integrity.
•    Striving for excellence in all endeavors.
•    Delivering on our commitments with passion.
•    Collaborating as one unified team.

 

When you join Valvoline Global, you’ll become part of a culture that celebrates creativity, innovation, and excellence. Together, we’re shaping the future of automotive and industrial solutions.

 

How You’ll Make an Impact
As the Laboratory Operations Manager, you will lead and manage the daily operational functions of our laboratory while overseeing comprehensive Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) programs. This leadership role requires a proactive and solutions-oriented professional who can ensure full regulatory compliance, maintain operational efficiency, and foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will also function as the primary liaison for facility maintenance, renovations, and expansion projects

 

Responsibilities Include

  • Direct all day-to-day lab operations, resolving facilities issues, coordinating with building management and security, and ensuring smooth functioning of lab systems.
  • Lead coordination of lab facility maintenance and improvements in partnership with the OBS team and external contractors.
  • Manage planning and execution of lab remodels and expansion projects, aligning resources and timelines for successful implementation.
  • Provide leadership and direct supervision to the blending, shipping, and receiving department, ensuring high levels of productivity and accuracy.
  • Establish performance standards, support employee development, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for all lab-related EHS matters.
  • Manage the EHS program using Valvoline's Global EHS system, overseeing self-audits, incident investigations, compliance tracking, and contractor reporting to ensure adherence to ROC14001 certification standards.
  • Administer document control, policy updates, and QMS compliance through the Global QMS platform in collaboration with corporate EHS managers.
  • Ensure proper hazardous waste management, including maintaining required documentation, submitting annual reports to the KY EPA, and updating the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
  • Lead quarterly EHS performance review meetings and present findings to the Lab Management Team.
  • Conduct and lead quarterly safety meetings to communicate key safety information to staff.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain onboarding and annual safety training programs for all lab employees.
  • Assign and manage the completion of EHS-related training courses through the company’s learning management system.

 

What You’ll Need

  • Minimum B.S. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
  • 5+ years of progressive experience in lab operations and EHS program management, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial laboratory environment.
  • Proven leadership experience managing teams and cross-functional initiatives.
  • In-depth knowledge of regulatory frameworks, including ROC14001, OSHA, and Kentucky EPA regulations.
  • Proficiency in using EHS and QMS systems (e.g., Valvoline Global EHS, Global QMS).
  • Strong project management, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Experience with analytical test methods and laboratory methods is beneficial.
  • Computer Skills - specifically Excel, PowerPoint, SAP, and QC software.
  • Collaborative skills to advance projects both internally and externally.

 

What Will Set You Apart

  • Master’s or PhD strongly preferred.
  • Expertise in analytical chemistry and tribology principles.
  • Knowledge of the lubricant market and technology. 

 

  

Valvoline Global is an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and skills. We strictly prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic.

 

We are committed to ensuring accessibility throughout our recruitment process. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the recruitment or selection process, please contact us at:.


•    Email: Valvolineglobalcareers@valvolineglobal.com

 

This contact information is solely for accommodation requests. For inquiries about application status, please use the appropriate channels listed in your application materials.

 

Are You Ready to Make an Impact?

At Valvoline Global, we’re looking for passionate and talented individuals to join our journey of innovation and excellence. Are you ready to shape the future with us? Apply today.


Requisition ID: 1613


Nearest Major Market: Lexington