Laboratory Manager – Oil & Gas | Petroleum & Hydrocarbon Testing at SOUTHERN PETROLEUM LABS – Midland, Texas

At SPL, the work you do matters. Our teams provide trusted energy and environmental testing and measurement solutions that protect communities, support critical infrastructure, and safeguard the environment. With a nationwide footprint and opportunities for growth across multiple locations and disciplines, SPL is a place where you can build a career while making a real-world impact.

We are seeking an experienced Laboratory Manager based in Midland, TX to lead petroleum and hydrocarbon laboratory operations across the Permian Basin, providing operational oversight for our laboratories in Midland, TX and Artesia, NM.

In this role, you’ll serve as the operational leader for both facilities, responsible for laboratory performance, team leadership, regulatory compliance, and overall operational execution. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who has successfully led laboratory teams and managed full laboratory operations within petroleum, hydrocarbon, or energy testing environments.

What You’ll Do

• Provide overall leadership and operational oversight for the Midland, TX and Artesia, NM petroleum testing laboratories
• Lead and develop laboratory supervisors and technical staff, ensuring strong performance, accountability, and professional development
• Maintain full responsibility for laboratory operations, staffing, workflow management, and operational performance
• Ensure compliance with ASTM, API, and industry analytical testing standards
• Oversee sample throughput, turnaround times, and laboratory productivity across both locations
• Direct laboratory resource planning including personnel, equipment, instrumentation, and laboratory supplies
• Maintain and oversee laboratory quality systems, QA/QC programs, and data integrity requirements
• Review and validate analytical data, reports, and documentation for technical accuracy and completeness
• Monitor key operational metrics including turnaround time, analytical performance, and operational efficiency
• Lead internal and external audits and ensure corrective actions are implemented effectively
• Identify and implement operational improvements to increase efficiency, reliability, and laboratory performance
• Collaborate with quality assurance, client services, and operations teams to ensure accurate and timely delivery of analytical results
• Provide technical guidance regarding laboratory capabilities and petroleum testing services
• Perform other duties as assigned

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific discipline
• Five (5) or more years of progressive experience in petroleum or hydrocarbon analytical testing laboratories
• Two (2) or more years of leadership experience overseeing laboratory operations, including quality systems, regulatory compliance, and audit readiness; multi-site oversight is a plus
• Strong knowledge of petroleum testing, crude oil analysis, natural gas testing, and hydrocarbon analytical methods
• Working knowledge of ASTM, API, or other applicable petroleum and energy testing standards
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and standard laboratory reporting workflows
• Demonstrated leadership, strong operational decision-making, and the ability to manage laboratory teams and workflows in a fast-paced testing environment

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support

Work Environment, Schedule, & Travel

• Full-time onsite role based in Midland, TX with oversight of laboratories in Midland, TX and Artesia, NM
• Periodic travel between laboratory locations as operational needs require
• Work performed in both office and laboratory environments
• Ability to work extended hours or weekends as operational needs require
• Adherence to laboratory safety protocols and required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

At SPL, we believe that a diverse team is a strong team. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. We make all employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities or for sincerely held religious beliefs, in accordance with applicable laws. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please let us know.

Visa Sponsorship

At this time, SPL is not able to offer visa sponsorship for this position. We sincerely appreciate your interest and understanding, and we encourage you to explore other opportunities with us that may be a fit in the future.