Job Description
Position Summary
This position is responsible for leading personnel within the Corporate Analytical Laboratory, overseeing analytical and performance testing services that support product development, quality, and customer applications. The role manages and develops casing applications and product lines—particularly cellulose casings, including new and existing configurations. In addition, this position partners with Quality, Plant Operations, and Sales teams to resolve issues, improve technologies, and identify appropriate casing solutions for customers. The role also drives the development, application, and commercialization of Applied Technologies Casings.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all operations of the Corporate Analytical Laboratory, including mentoring and coaching staff, managing chemical and material inventory, maintaining and calibrating equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
- Manage and coordinate testing and reporting for developmental, production, and competitive products to support product innovation, quality improvement, and market understanding.
- Lead the development and validation of analytical test methods for new and existing products, and ensure effective transfer to production facilities worldwide.
- Serve as the Corporate liaison across company laboratories, performing inter-company method cross-checks and ensuring consistent laboratory operational standards.
- Maintain the global database of testing procedures and associated equipment requirements.
- Provide advanced technical support for casing product development, product enhancement, and customer applications—including travel with Sales and Technical Service to evaluate performance at customer sites.
- Facilitate commercial launches by preparing product / production documentation, delivering sales training, and monitoring early-stage product performance.
- Partner with Quality and Plant Operations to investigate and resolve product performance or operational issues, supporting root cause analysis, preventive / corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Drive innovation projects by coordinating testing, product selection, and development activities to meet pre-established objectives and timelines.
- Provide management with regular updates, including monthly progress reports covering lab activities, testing results, and product initiatives.
- Manage or participate in other product innovation projects as assigned.
- Perform additional duties as required.
Education & Experience Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Applied Sciences (Chemistry, Physics, Biology, or related field); advanced degree a plus.Minimum 5 years of industrial laboratory experience.5–7 years of experience in manufacturing and / or testing of food casing materials preferred.Hands-on expertise in analytical methods such as IR, HPLC, GC, AA, wet chemistry, and sample preparation.Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).Working knowledge of statistical methods and software (e.g., Excel statistics tools, Minitab) preferred.Proven leadership abilities with prior experience managing staff or leading critical projects.Experience collaborating with production and quality teams to solve technical challenges.Strong communication skills; training experience is desirable.Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects.Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilitiesTravel up to 40% at times primarily to the Corporate Laboratory facilities in Monterrey, MX and to the Loudon, TN plant in the USWhy Viskase?
Viskase is a global powerhouse in the food packaging industry with over a century of innovation. We produce 30% of the world’s hot dog casings and operate 9 manufacturing facilities and sales offices worldwide, including locations in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, Italy, Brazil, Poland, and the Philippines.
At Viskase, you’ll join a team that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement, where your contributions make a direct impact every day.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Protected Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities