Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for scientific research and quality assurance? Our Highway Laboratory is seeking a dynamic and experienced Lab Testing Manager to lead our team. Our Highway Laboratory provides specialist testing and advice on the suitability and use of construction materials as well as approval testing on new construction and investigations of older roads to inform best remedial options. We carry out materials testing both inside and outside the laboratory in order to deliver the requirements of the service. Testing is carried out using a range of specialist equipment and tools following published standards and in house methods. Main Responsibilities In this role, you will manage a team carrying out a wide variety of laboratory and site testing, to deliver both pre-planned and reactive work with the need to respond quickly to a priority requirement. You will need to engage with customers and stakeholders to support them with your technical expertise. You will: Organise the development and technical training of staff to ensure competency and consistency of test results. Ensure the delivery of a customer focused service by developing and maintain relationships with clients and stakeholders. Support the management and implementation of health and safety, environmental and quality management controls to ensure compliance with legislation, Council policies and best practice. The Ideal Candidate Although significant knowledge and experience in the testing and specifications relating to construction materials, site investigations and insitu testing of soils and other materials is important, training can be provided to the right candidate. You will need to: Demonstrate experience of managing a team. Have financial and budgetary skills. Have experience of working with customers and stakeholders. Be willing to learn and develop in the role and undertake training when required. Have practical ability and problem-solving skills. Have ICT skills competent with software packages such as Microsoft Office. “We’re happy to talk flexible working” If you have any further questions about the role, or would like an informal discussion prior to applying, please contact Emma Loach (Laboratory Manager) on 01785 277362 or by email – emma.loachstaffordshire.gov.uk. Link to walk through of the laboratory to give you an idea of what it is like https://youtu.be/VAxwGQOjHW4. Interviews will be carried out between the 24 March and 31 March 2025. Our Recruitment Process: We anonymise applications during shortlisting to ensure only relevant information is considered. Please complete your application fully, especially the supporting statement, to highlight what you’ll bring to the role. About Staffordshire County Council We are no ordinary county council: Our Values: The core of who we are as an organisation. Just like we all have personal values that shape our thoughts and behaviour, organisational values drive how we think and act collectively. Our values were created and shaped by colleague feedback and national best practice and they sit at the heart of People Strategy: We have a real sense of community spirit that brings our people together. This feeling of belonging means we are all connected to what we do and take pride in the difference we make every day for Staffordshire people. We are ambitious and our sights are set firmly on a better future. We look forward and race ahead - that goes for your career too. Our benefits: We recognise that it is our employees that are central to everything we do. We aim to create a supportive working environment where employees can achieve their full potential and achieve a healthy work-life balance. In addition to your salary, as a member of staff, you will have access to Our rewards and benefits - Careers at Staffordshire Our recruitment process: As an Authority we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Staffordshire County Council is an equal opportunities organisation and Disability Confident employer. We encourage applications from all background and communities As part of our commitment as a Disability Confident employer, a Gold Award Armed Forces employer and our commitment to supporting care leavers - we offer a guaranteed interview as long as your application meets the minimum criteria for the post.