Geotechnical Laboratory Operations Manager

Job Description

Join Fugro as a Laboratory Operations Manager in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium!

Fugro is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Laboratory Operations Manager with a strong passion for geotechnics to lead our team in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium. The Fugro office in Belgium offers specialized consultancy and engineering services worldwide in both the marine and land environments for projects in the energy and infrastructure markets.

Fugro is the world’s leading independent provider of geo-intelligence and asset integrity solutions for large constructions, infrastructure, and natural resources. We provide the technical data and information required to design, construct, and maintain structures and infrastructure in a safe, reliable, and efficient manner. Working around the globe, Fugro employs approximately 10,000 employees in around 60 countries.

Roles and Responsibilities

As the Laboratory Operations Manager at Fugro in Louvain-la-Neuve, you will:

• Manage Operations: Oversee the personnel and overall operations of the geotechnical laboratory, ensuring all testing and related activities are performed efficiently, meet deadlines, and align with relevant processes and procedures.

• Lead and Supervise: Supervise and monitor day-to-day laboratory activities and personnel, including senior team members in Goods-in, Standard & Advanced testing, and EU land market testing. Actively participate in the recruitment process for new personnel.

• Ensure Quality and Safety: Maintain the highest levels of safety and testing standards in accordance with Company procedures, QHSSE policies, and UKAS accreditation requirements.

• Collaborate and Communicate: Work closely with the Head of Geotechnical Laboratories, Marine Testing Manager, Quality Manager, Lead Programme Manager, Data Manager, the Laboratory Operations Manager in Wallingford, and other lab personnel to further develop the Louvain-la-Neuve laboratory and ensure consistency. Maintain continuous internal communication to ensure timely submission of deliverables and client satisfaction.

• Develop Personnel: Ensure staff are trained, mentored, and coached to perform test methods safely and reliably, supporting their continual career development. Foster an integrated, high-functioning team environment.

Requirements

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate technical excellence and thrive in a fast-paced operational environment. Key requirements include:

• Educational Background: Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.

• Operational Experience: 3-8 years of previous experience working in an operational field is essential. Theoretical/practical knowledge of soils testing and understanding of offshore marine geotechnical projects are desirable.

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

• Language Proficiency: Proficient in English and French.

• Skills: Excellent numeracy and literacy. In-depth understanding of operations management, strong supervision and team motivation skills, ability to plan and prioritize workload, excellent communication skills, and experience providing direction, feedback, and coaching.

Why Join Fugro?

At Fugro, we are dedicated to fostering an environment of diversity and inclusion. We provide our employees with a supportive and dynamic workplace, and we are committed to innovative solutions in geo-intelligence and asset integrity. Here’s what you can expect:

• Collaborative Culture: We aim to create a family-like working environment where teamwork is valued.

• Multicultural Team: Join a diverse team that cultivates an entrepreneurial attitude and a desire for continuous learning and improvement.

• Work-Life Balance: We believe in delivering results rather than hours and strive for family-friendly employment practices.

• Employee Wellbeing: We cherish initiatives that promote our employees’ wellbeing and health.

The Working Conditions You Can Expect:

• An attractive salary and benefits package that reflects your qualifications and expertise.

• Numerous career and training opportunities both nationally and internationally.

• Fixed annual salary reevaluation.

If you are passionate about contributing to a world-renowned company and have the relevant skills and experience, we welcome your application.

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**.**