Lab Improvement Specialist

Lab Improvement Specialist

Location:

Analytical Lab – Columbus, MT

Schedule:

5-2-4-3 9hr Shifts

Job Responsibilities and Duties:

At Sibanye-Stillwater, the Lab Improvement Specialist provides technical expertise in QA/QC analysis and leads the coordination, monitoring, and execution of training initiatives aimed at improving lab performance, safety, efficiency, and sustainability. In addition to these technical responsibilities, the role includes periodically serving in a supervisory capacity as needed. Key responsibilities include promoting continuous improvement in QA/QC and operational procedures, ensuring the timely collection and communication of accurate information, maintaining laboratory equipment, and consistently delivering high-quality work. The Lab Improvement Specialist is also expected to communicate effectively and collaborate across all levels of the organization-including operations supervisors, general foremen, support staff, and hourly employees-to foster a positive, team-oriented environment. This role requires evaluating strategic improvement opportunities with a balanced approach: applying critical analysis to identify gaps, inefficiencies, and risks, while also developing and recommending innovative solutions. Essential job functions include:

• Foster an inclusive environment that promotes teamwork, innovation, and actively seek feedback from the workforce for continuous improvements.
• Promote and maintain a safe work environment, safe work practices, and a strong safety culture.
• Ensure that Environmental Excellence is practiced throughout the facility.
• Coordinate and conduct work area inspections and effective safety meetings.
• Ensure that laboratory technicians have all the necessary tools, knowledge, and skills to perform their jobs safely and efficiently.
• Collaborate with other training departments, facilitate training opportunities, and document completion.
• Responsible for the training of Lab employees and managing the corresponding documentation.
• Manage the Lab's training program, ensuring training records and SOP revisions are tracked, kept up-to-date, and documented appropriately.
• Provide feedback to the Lab General Foreman on the development progress of newly hired lab technicians.
• Report analytical results supporting the Recycle Business, ensuring QA/QC procedures are followed.
• Promote and drive continuous improvement with lab QA/QC and operational procedures.
• Provide LIMS (Lab Information Management System) testing and troubleshooting.
• Provide assistance to the Lab General Foreman with coordinating maintenance activities.
• Maximize utilization of key equipment and systems in line with company operating policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and certifying authority requirements.
• Coordinate the sampling and assaying of all materials when filling in for a supervisor.
• Provide input and feedback on Business Improvement initiatives and Defect Elimination projects.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Proficient in operational techniques, process parameters, and maintenance requirements of the following circuits or processes: fire assay, lab instrumentation, sample preparation, digestion, predictive and preventative maintenance, and environmental compliance.
• Hazardous materials training and applications.
• Ability to communicate with technical specialists and to interpret technical drawings and specification documents.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to include accurate and detailed record keeping.
• Excellent leadership abilities, including ability to train and mentor hourly employees, assist in conflict resolution, and encourage teamwork.
• Experience with LIMS (Thermo Fisher Sample Manager or equivalent).
• Strong computer skills including LIMS, JD Edwards, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook.
• Working knowledge of industrial safety (OSHA Rules & Regulations), production, maintenance, economics, equipment, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated organizational skills with excellent people, problem solving, and communication skills.
• Understanding of company policies, procedures, and standards.
• Ability to analytically and rationally make decisions.
• Experience in executing safety and quality control systems.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma and 5 or more years of relevant technical and leadership experience in an analytical lab; OR bachelor's degree in chemistry or related discipline, and 2 years related work experience.
• Experience with OSHA regulations.
• Previous training experience.
• Must be able to work any shift, including weekends, as needed.

Sibanye-Stillwater is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions at Sibanye-Stillwater are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation or preference, marital or family status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.