ALTER TECHNOLOGY GROUP (ATG), a company of TÜV NORD GROUP, is an international leader in engineering and test of microelectronics and equipment, and in assembly of opto- and microelectronic components and equipment, within the aerospace and other high-technology markets. Laboratory Operations Manager
You will orchestrate the day-to-day and weekly operations of the laboratory to ensure safe, on-time, high-quality, and cost-efficient delivery. Reporting directly to the Laboratory Manager, and acting as the operational hub between planning, technical teams, quality, logistics, and management, you will balance workloads, allocate resources, resolve daily issues, and drive continuous improvement with clear KPIs.
Operational planning: Consolidate inputs across areas, publish and adjust the short-term plan, and secure adherence to test calendars; Workload balancing & shift coordination: coordinate people, shifts, and windows for critical activities across physical analysis lab, RF, electrical measurements, pre-production, etc.
control operating expenses; Incident & urgency management: take immediate decisions (re-plan, authorize urgent purchases, reassign people/equipment) within agreed limits; Define and track key performance indicators (e.g. Mentor and coach laboratory staff (in coordination with their supervisors) to enhance skills and performance; run brief daily/weekly production meetings; proactively report status, risks, and needs to the Laboratory Manager and other stakeholders.
Project readiness: Prepare the lab operationally for large programs, aligning capacities, materials, and schedules in advance.
Compliance interface: Coordinate with the Quality department to ensure operations adhere to ISO/IEC 17025 practices (equipment control, personnel competence, records management) and all lab safety protocols. Support audit preparations and implement corrective actions or process updates as needed to maintain compliance
Bachelor's degree in engineering, physical sciences, or a related field (or equivalent experience in a technical environment).
Proven experience managing or coordinating operations in a laboratory or high-tech environment with multiple teams and shared resources.
Hands-on experience in short-term planning and capacity/shift management, including effective issue resolution under time pressure.
Data-driven mindset with practical experience defining and using operational KPIs to drive performance.
Familiarity with working under ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory quality systems (e.g. equipment control, record-keeping, staff competence, and validity of results) and/or applying lean manufacturing principles.
fluent in Spanish and professional working proficiency in English.
Exposure to Lean or continuous improvement initiatives in lab operations (e.g. optimizing workflow, leveling workloads, reducing waste), and familiarity with MES/ERP, LIMS or other planning tools for laboratory management.
Certification or formal training in process improvement methodologies, such as Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt).
Experience in RF/electronic testing environments or other high-mix, high-tech laboratory settings.
Knowledge of quality assurance, inspection, and metrology standards; Project Management certification (PMP or similar), demonstrating ability to manage projects and coordinate cross-functional efforts.
Effective time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and responsibilities efficiently.
Attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and quality in all operations and documentation.
Continuous learning mindset and willingness to stay updated with the latest advancements in laboratory techniques, equipment, and best practices.
Our flexible working hours scheme and comprehensive holidays package help you to better balance your work and personal life besides home office option two days per week.
~ We actively support our employees in their personal and professional advancement with a wide range of internal seminars and our management development.
~ You can also look forward to a number of attractive benefits such as life insurance, a flexible