Head of Analytical Laboratory Operations

"Be the catalyst that drives real change for our planet."

Samsara Eco has one clear mission: to repair our planet through infinite plastic recycling. Yes, it’s a mighty mission but it’s something every single one of us here at Samsara Eco is determined to achieve. And it’s what motivates us to dedicate our time and energy to every single day.

Our technology is like our team. One of a kind. And we know that, so while we are creating technology to repair our planet, we’re also building a great place to grow careers. A place where everyone can do the best work of their life, making meaningful impact on our planet and ourselves.

Who we are...

We’re a climate tech innovator repairing our planet through infinite recycling. We’re taking the 10 billion tonnes of plastics and textiles wasting away in landfill and our environment, and recycling it, infinitely to create a truly circular loop for packaging, clothing, airbags and everything in between.

It means brands can make the products we all know and love without the environmental damage. Because by using what we already have, we can end the world’s reliance on dirty fossil fuels to slow climate change and ensure we have a liveable planet for future generations.

The Role...

We're looking for a talented Head of Analytical Laboratory Operations to join our team at Samsara Eco. In this role, you'll play a pivotal role in organising, managing, and optimising laboratory materials and equipment to facilitate a cost-efficient, highly effective, and streamlined work environment for Samsara Eco. 

The Head of Analytical Laboratory Operations is expected to manage the analytical, synthetics, bioengineering and bioproduction laboratories which are critical in supporting Samsara Eco’s science and technology efforts, while also providing analytical chemistry subject matter expertise.

Key Responsibilities...

• Lead and support a team of Analytical Chemists and Laboratory Technicians, including onboarding new members and coordinating team schedules.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and performance evaluation of the team.
• Ensure all inspections, testing and documentation including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are current and properly stored according to current systems.
• Closely partner with Quality Assurance Manager and Associate to ensure compliance with laboratory quality system, processes and procedures.
• Develop and optimise analytical methods using Liquid Chromatography (LC), Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry and support the analytical laboratory staff in method validation.
• Manage and maintain materials and supply inventory including checking consumables, ordering, and coordinating relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders.
• Operate equipment as needed to fulfill customer project requirements and oversee maintenance and service records.
• Stay abreast of industry standards and advancements and collaborate to develop and implement processes that drive workflow efficiencies.
• Schedule and organise daily work including scheduling of processes to ensure that the laboratories operate efficiently, and expectations are met/exceeded.
• Coordinate and engage Scientists, Engineers, Technicians and Project Managers as needed.
• Identify multiple sources of lab critical materials to ensure continuity of project work.
• Establish and maintain relationships with equipment repair/calibration companies.
• Schedule regular maintenance, repairs, and calibration for equipment.
• Crosstrain with Scientist(s) to provide troubleshooting support when needed.
• Monitor and minimise waste streams while ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Skills and Competencies

• Results-driven, focused on delivering business goals and identifying new opportunities.
• Committed to long-term success by setting objectives and allocating resources.
• Skilled in setting clear standards, communicating expectations, and providing coaching.
• Fosters an open environment, encouraging challenges and motivating others.
• Experienced in analysing business data, writing reports, and delivering presentations.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 apps (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong multi-tasking, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Troubleshoots laboratory equipment and provides hands-on lab support.
• Experienced in laboratory control, root cause analysis, and corrective/preventive action management.
• Knowledgeable in environmental, health, and lab safety practices.

Qualifications...

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Life Sciences, Chemistry, Engineering, or related discipline; Ph.D. preferred.
• 5+ years of relevant industry experience including laboratory management or a related field
• Experience in applied analytical chemistry including method development, validation and hands-on operation of laboratory equipment.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety regulations in a quality control environment where product release and continuation of processes are dependent on analytical laboratory data
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve issues quickly and effectively
• Experience with laboratory equipment and software systems.
• Demonstrated exposure to Manufacturing principles and an action orientated approach.

Other...

• Ability to lift 10-15 kg.
• This role will initially be based at ANU however will be relocating to Jerrabomberra in the coming months.

Why work with us...

Purpose-Driven Innovation: Join a team at the forefront of tackling one of the world’s most urgent environmental challenges. Your work will directly contribute to advancing solutions that repair the planet and restore global ecosystems.

Collaboration and Growth: We value diverse perspectives and collective action. At Samsara Eco, you’ll collaborate with brilliant minds across science, technology, and business in an environment that fosters creativity, mutual respect, and continuous learning.

Empowerment and Ownership: We offer a flat, flexible structure where you can take ownership of projects and make meaningful decisions. We trust our team to lead, innovate, and drive change as we scale our solutions globally.

Work-Life Integration: We believe that happy, healthy employees do their best work. That’s why we offer flexible work arrangements, competitive compensation, and benefits that prioritize your well-being and help you maintain balance between your personal and professional life.

A Future-Focused Culture: We encourage agility, innovation, and courage in everything we do. Join a team that values your unique strengths, challenges the status quo, and builds a lasting legacy of positive change.

Samsara is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and anyone seeking employment at Samsara is considered based on merit, qualifications, competence and talent. We don’t regard colour, religion, race, national origin, sexual orientation, ancestry, citizenship, sex, marital or family status, disability, gender, or any other legally protected status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

Does this sound like your dream job? If it does, join our mission and apply now!

And for more information check out our explainer video here!