XRD Technical Lead – Analytical Operations

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
Lead the Science. Shape the Workflow. Set the Standard.
Our East Syracuse, NY laboratory is seeking an experienced XRD Technical Lead to supervise and grow a high-performing analytical testing team. This role is ideal for a hands-on analytical chemist who enjoys balancing technical problem-solving, team leadership, and operational excellence in a production laboratory environment.
As the XRD Technical Lead – Analytical Operations, you will own day-to-day laboratory operations, guide analysts and technicians, and ensure high-quality, compliant data delivery—while actively promoting a strong culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
What You’ll Lead & Own
XRD Laboratory Operations
Lead daily XRD laboratory operations to meet turnaround time, throughput, and data quality objectives
Coordinate workflow and sample prioritization to ensure production targets are consistently achieved
Apply expert technical judgment to identify and resolve analytical or workflow challenges
Ensure accurate sample tracking, processing, and documentation within LIMS
Monitor instrument utilization and staffing alignment to maximize operational efficiency
Team Leadership & Development
Supervise, coach, and mentor analysts and technicians through clear expectations and hands-on leadership
Partner with Team Leads, Senior Analysts, and the Laboratory Manager to support hiring, onboarding, and training
Assist in developing junior analysts into fully productive XRD contributors
Manage daily performance, address issues proactively, and model strong leadership behaviors
Quality, Safety & Continuous Improvement
Champion a safety-first laboratory culture and ensure adherence to all safety protocols
Address safety concerns immediately (e.g., hood use, PPE compliance, chemical handling)
Implement and reinforce best practices to ensure data quality meets or exceeds industry standards
Maintain appropriate operating supplies and communicate potential risks or issues to management
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, or equivalent education and experience
4+ years of experience in analytical testing laboratories
Hands-on XRD experience in a production or analytical environment
Strong understanding of laboratory workflows, process optimization, and sample lifecycle management
Experience applying technical judgment to troubleshoot analytical challenges
Knowledge of environmental testing protocols, regulations, and certifications
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
Advanced English language skills (written and verbal)
Strongly Preferred:
Prior experience supervising, leading, or mentoring laboratory staff
Experience working in a high-throughput or production-driven lab
Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
Why Join Us
Opportunity to lead a specialized XRD analytical team with real operational impact
Stable, growth-oriented laboratory environment
Collaborative leadership culture with visibility to management
Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $65,000 – $75,000 (based on experience)
Schedule: Full-time | Exempt (not overtime eligible)
Immediate eligibility for 401(k) retirement plan
Paid vacation
Four (4) floating holidays annually
Seven (7) paid company holidays
Sick time accrual
Eligibility for company benefit programs starting the first of the month following hire
Relocation assistance may be considered for qualified candidates with strong XRD experience.
SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.