Quality Assurance Laboratory Manager (Panama)

About the role

Jacobs is looking for an experienced Quality Assurance Laboratory Manager to support the Panama Canal Authority on a complex dam and tunnel infrastructure program. The role will lead laboratory‑based quality assurance verification services, coordinating third‑party laboratories and field testing for soil, aggregates, concrete and other construction materials.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and document all applicable codes, standards, specifications, plans, policies and procedures required for effective quality planning and assurance.
• Establish the quality‑assurance framework for third‑party laboratory and field testing services.
• Develop and maintain a laboratory testing plan for soil, aggregates, concrete and other construction materials, covering production, processing, stockpiling, placement, handling and final acceptance.
• Define testing frequencies, sampling requirements, acceptance criteria, reporting protocols and escalation procedures.
• Manage laboratory personnel, assign work, set priorities, provide technical direction and monitor performance.
• Coordinate laboratory activities with the client, contractor, construction teams, quality‑assurance personnel, field inspectors and project management.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is certified, calibrated, maintained and fit for purpose, reviewing calibration certificates and maintenance records.
• Review and assess laboratory and field test results for accuracy, completeness, consistency and compliance, evaluating data for trends, anomalies and potential impacts.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing quality‑assurance laboratories for construction material testing.
• Strong knowledge of applicable codes, standards and technical specifications for soil, aggregates and concrete.
• Ability to lead and supervise laboratory staff and coordinate with multiple project stakeholders.
• Experience ensuring equipment certification, calibration and maintenance compliance.

Required skills

• Laboratory testing of soil, aggregates and concrete.
• Calibration and maintenance of materials testing equipment.
• Quality‑assurance procedures and documentation.
• Interpretation of test data and generation of compliance reports.