Geotechnical Laboratory Operations Manager

Job Description

Laboratory Operations Manager – Fugro, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium

Are you an experienced operational leader with a real interest in geotechnical engineering and how it supports construction and infrastructure? Fugro is looking for a Laboratory Operations Manager to lead our team and facilities in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium. This is a key role where you'll have a direct impact on our Belgian operations and contribute to important energy and infrastructure projects around the world.

What You'll Be Doing:

This role is about leading our laboratory operations effectively. You will be:

• Running a Key Operation: You’ll be in charge of two geotechnical laboratories and a warehouse. This includes making sure everything runs smoothly day-to-day.

• Leading and Supporting Your Team: You'll manage and guide a team of around 5 engineers (including Quality Staff), 15 technicians, and 2 logistics staff. Helping them develop and work well together is a big part of this.

• Driving Development: You'll play an important part in developing our laboratory capabilities in Belgium and help grow Fugro's business here. We’re looking for someone who can be a driving force for positive change and improvement.

• Maintaining a Strategic View: While managing daily tasks, you’ll also keep an eye on the bigger picture for the labs – managing people, equipment, and ensuring good planning.

• Upholding Quality and Standards: You'll be a technical go-to person for the lab, making sure all work meets our quality and safety standards (including QHSSE and UKAS).

• Working with Others: You’ll collaborate closely with our UK lab in Wallingford and other teams within Fugro, ensuring good communication and shared goals.

More Specifically, Your Responsibilities Will Include:

• Overseeing the team and daily work of the geotechnical laboratories and warehouse, ensuring tests are done efficiently and on time.

• Supervising, mentoring, and coaching your team members. You'll also be involved in recruiting new staff.

• Making sure safety and testing standards are high, in line with company procedures and accreditations.

• Communicating regularly with the Head of Geotechnical Laboratories, various managers, and other lab staff to ensure projects run smoothly and clients are satisfied.

• Looking for ways to improve and develop the Louvain-la-Neuve laboratory and contribute to business growth in Belgium.

What We're Looking For:

We need someone who is good with the technical side of things and also a strong people leader.

• Education: A Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a similar field, or equivalent experience.

• Operational Experience: 3-8 years working in an operational role. Knowledge of soil testing and an understanding of offshore marine geotechnical projects would be helpful.

• Management Experience: 3-8 years of experience leading and motivating teams.

• Languages: You need to be proficient in both English and French.

• Skills: Good numeracy and literacy. A solid understanding of how to manage operations, strong supervisory and team motivation skills, the ability to plan and prioritize, good communication skills, and experience giving direction and feedback.

Why Join Fugro?

We aim to create a good working environment at Fugro. Here’s what you can expect:

• A Collaborative Place to Work: We try to foster a supportive, team-based atmosphere.

• A Diverse Team: You’ll join a multicultural team where people are encouraged to learn and share ideas.

• Work-Life Balance: We focus on getting the job done and support family-friendly working practices.

• Employee Wellbeing: We care about our employees' health and wellbeing.

What We Offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package.

• Opportunities for training and career development, in Belgium and internationally.

• A fixed annual salary review.

Interested?

If you're an operational leader who enjoys geotechnics and is motivated by the idea of developing both facilities and people, we’d like to hear from you. This is a chance to make a real contribution at Fugro.

Disclaimer for recruitment agencies:

Fugro does not accept any unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies. Acquisition to Fugro Recruitment or any Fugro employee is not appreciated**.**