Photo Labs Research (Lab Manager)

Laboratory Manager

·         The Lab Manager oversees all the work going through the photographic laboratory at any one time, and plans for the work expected in the future.

·         He or she acts as an interface between the clients and the technical staff, and must continually anticipate and resolve potential problems and production bottlenecks to ensure the laboratory runs smoothly.

·         This is a pivotal, multi-tasking role that requires strong leadership skills and the ability to think on your feet. 

·         The Lab Manager must be able to quickly assess situations, find solutions and take decisive action, often under pressure of deadlines. In some establishments, this role is referred to as Production Manager.

What is the job?
The Lab Manager organises and controls all aspects of the laboratory environment. They supervise general workflow, professional customer service and the maintenance of equipment, as well as quality control, pricing, purchasing and the day-to-day running of the lab.

·         The Lab Manager must have excellent customer service skills in order to liaise with photographers and designers.

·         They must negotiate charges and deadlines, monitor output, and respond quickly to breakdowns, bottlenecks or supply problems.

·         They must set up clear communication channels, and develop systems and strategies to deal with a fast-moving and sometimes unpredictable workload.

·         It is also important to keep up with new technological developments and help to improve productivity, profitability and client satisfaction.

The Lab Manager must:

·         Organise and manage the workflow in the laboratory

·         Co-ordinate activities throughout the laboratory

·         Delegate work amongst the various technicians

·         Monitor outputs and keep records of workflow and usage of supplies

·         Supervise the ordering and delivery new supplies

·         Test and calibrate equipment to ensure optimum results, monitor chemistry in equipment

·         Perform quality tests and ensure the company meets it quality assurance standards

·         Oversee customer services to maximise sales

·         Promote the continuing professional development of staff and oversee the training of trainees

·         Make risk assessments for the laboratory and ensure that the company's Health & Safety policy is observed

·         Offer cover for other staff when required

·         Evaluate and assess new equipment

The Lab Manager may also be involved in the development and introduction of new products and services to encourage the growth of the business.

Lab Managers often work long hours; however, they are usually fairly well paid and enjoy the benefits of a regular salary, holidays and a company pension.

Typical career routes
Most Laboratory Managers working today started in a technical position such as film processor or photographic printer before moving into to a management role.
In larger laboratories, Laboratory Managers may have the opportunity to progress into a more specialised management, marketing or product development positions.

Essential knowledge and skills

The Lab Manager must possess excellent colour vision and have an excellent eye for colour, contrast, density and other graphic effects.

They should possess good analytical, problem solving and decision-making skills. They should have a positive, pro-active attitude and pay close attention to detail.

They need first class planning and time-management skills, and must have the ability to motivate staff. They should be a good listener and have the ability to communicate ideas and instructions clearly and concisely.

They should be able to understand graphs and accounts, maintain accurate records, and put together schedules and reports.

They need an excellent all round knowledge of all the equipment and processes used in the laboratory, as well as good IT and Digital Imaging skills. They must be calm and level headed, and be able to make rational decisions even when under time pressure. An experience and interest in photography is also useful in order to help clients and customers achieve the results they are looking for, as well as to help develop new products and services.

Training and qualifications
Since most Lab Managers progress into this position from a technical position within the laboratory, there are no set qualifications for this role. However, employers usually expect the Lab Manager to combine excellent technical and managerial skills with extensive experience of professional laboratory and/or retail minilab work.

Some form of management training course such as an NVQ/SVQ in Management may be useful. However, employers usually place more value on applicants who have training and experience in the operation of most forms of processing, digital imaging and printing equipment, as well as more traditional photographic processes.