Associate Lab Director

Job Title:Associate Lab Director – Cannabis Testing & Analytical Lab Operations

Location:New York, USA (onsite)

Employment Type:Permanent

About the Role:

The Associate Lab Director is responsible for collaborating with the Lab Director in all aspects of planning and managing the assigned laboratory and serving as the lead manager during the Lab Director’s absence. This role supports oversight of day-to-day laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements.

The position promotes a lab environment focused on support, development, engagement, and high productivity, including coaching, cross-training, and performance management. It partners with the Lab Director to support the financial health of the laboratory by assisting with expense management and monitoring performance against company KPI targets.

Responsibilities include managing lab operations when required, ensuring compliance with ISO-17025 and applicable regulations, maintaining analytical equipment, partnering with Quality Assurance to ensure adherence to methods and SOPs, and fostering strong internal, external, and cross-functional relationships. The role also drives a culture of continuous improvement and supports additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Requirements:

• Strong understanding of standard laboratory protocols
• Experience working with cannabis laboratory analytical equipment (HPLC, GC-MSMS, LCMSMS, ICP-MS)
• Track record in accelerating the performance of laboratory groups
• Ability to manage laboratory operations, including production, process evaluation, and monitoring
• Knowledge of compliance with laboratory policies, procedures, county regulations, and ISO-17025 quality management systems
• Ability to maintain and operate analytical equipment including HPLC, GC-MSMS, LCMSMS, ICP-MS, qPCR, analytical balances, autoclave, centrifuge, biological safety cabinets, and fume hoods
• Ability to partner with Quality Assurance to ensure method and SOP compliance
• Strong communication skills and ability to work, influence, problem-solve, and communicate across all organizational levels
• Strong analytical skills with effective judgment and decision-making capabilities
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
• Ability to travel when requested, including overnight travel

Qualifications:

• Minimum BS/BA in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Engineering, or Environmental Sciences required; advanced degree preferred
• 5+ years of relevant laboratory operations and leadership experience (Pharmacy experience is not considered)
• Advanced knowledge of laboratory principles, terminology, practices, techniques, and instrumentation
• Exposure to the cannabis industry desired
• Ability to pass a Level 2 background check

Who We Are

SGF Global is an integrated talent solutions provider, offering staffing, recruitment, Employer of Record (EOR), nearshore, and consulting services across a wide range of industries in 35 countries. We're a dynamic, people-first organization where fresh ideas are always welcome. Our culture is built on collaboration, innovation, and a genuine passion for helping people grow. At SGF Global, smiles are part of the dress code, and every voice matters.

Are you looking to join an organization where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a global impact?

• Explore opportunities
• Grow your career
• Be part of something global
• Your future starts here.

Who We Are
SGF Global is an integrated talent solutions provider, offering staffing, recruitment, Employer of Record (EOR), nearshore, and consulting services across a wide range of industries in 35 countries. We're a dynamic, people-first organization where fresh ideas are always welcome. Our culture is built on collaboration, innovation, and a genuine passion for helping people grow. At SGF Global, smiles are part of the dress code, and every voice matters.

Are you looking to join an organization where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a global impact?

Explore opportunities
Grow your career
Be part of something global
Your future starts here.