Lab Manager

About RYZE:

The Role:

The Lab Manager is responsible for the overall organization, cleanliness, and operational integrity of RYZE’s physical lab and digital inventory systems. This role leads lab organization standards, oversees lab team training, and ensures efficient sampling and testing workflows.

Reporting to the Senior Manager of New Product Development, the Lab Manager works closely with Food Scientists and Lab Technicians to maintain accountability, support R&D efforts, and ensure lab readiness as the business scales.

What You’ll Do

• Oversee day-to-day lab operations, including building security, maintenance, and facility coordination
   

• Manage, train, and support the laboratory team, setting standards for organization and accountability
   

• Plan and oversee testing of raw materials, semi-finished, and finished products
   

• Maintain consistent stock levels of raw ingredients and organized finished-good retains (physical and digital)
   

• Support R&D with sensory analysis of raw materials and finished products
   

• Monitor lab equipment performance and ensure regular calibration and maintenance
   

• Manage technical documentation, lab records, and reports
   

• Develop and maintain sampling forms and processes for internal and external stakeholders
   

• Create and document SOPs related to lab organization and office team interaction
   

• Support continuous improvement of lab workflows and systems
   

• (Other related duties may be assigned.)

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field
   

• 5+ years of experience in a lab or similar environment, preferably within food or CPG
   

• 2+ years of experience managing a lab team or supervising people
   

• Strong experience with lab organization, inventory management, and task planning
   

• Proficiency in Excel and lab data management tools
   

• High attention to detail with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
   

• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced startup environment
   

• Comfort adapting to changing processes and training others on new systems
   

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
   

• Proficiency in Microsoft and Google tools (Word, Excel, Sheets, etc.)
   

• Basic sensory skills to differentiate products by taste and smell
   

• No food aversions or sensitivities (including caffeine or melatonin) due to product ingestion
   

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
   

• Experience managing facilities or lab buildings is strongly preferred
   

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods
   

• Ability to lift and transport materials up to 45 lbs
   

What We Offer:

• Performance bonus eligibility
   

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match
   

• Flexible PTO
   

• On-site role with the opportunity to make a direct, high-impact contribution to a rapidly scaling CPG brand