Lead, Laboratory

ABOUT NEXTDECADE CORPORATION NextDecade is committed to providing the world access to reliable, lower carbon energy. We are focused on delivering secure, low-cost, and sustainable energy solutions through the safe and efficient development and operation of natural gas liquefaction and carbon capture and storage infrastructure. Through our subsidiaries, we are developing and constructing the Rio Grande LNG natural gas liquefaction and export facility near Brownsville, Texas, with approximately 48 MTPA of potential liquefaction capacity currently under construction or in development. We are also developing a potential carbon capture and storage project at the facility that is expected to make meaningful impacts toward a lower carbon future. NextDecade’s common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol “NEXT.” NextDecade is headquartered in Houston, Texas. For more information, please visit www.next-decade.com.
SUMMARY OF THE ROLE 

This role oversees all aspects of laboratory operations to ensure accurate testing, regulatory compliance, and support for plant functions. It involves managing equipment, data systems (LIMS), safety protocols, and interdepartmental communication while leading continuous improvement initiatives. The position also includes mentoring staff, maintaining documentation standards, and contributing technical expertise to cross-functional teams.  This position is based at Rio Grande LNG in Brownsville, TX.  Check out our RGV Spotlight Video to learn more about Brownsville and the Rio Grande Valley! 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee and coordinate all daily laboratory operations to support plant activities, ensuring strict adherence to safety, environmental, and operational standards.
• Ensure the accurate, consistent, and timely execution of laboratory tests and analyses, maintaining high standards of data integrity and reliability.
• Interpret test results and prepare detailed technical reports, effectively communicating findings to internal stakeholders across various departments.
• Maintain all laboratory equipment in optimal working condition through routine calibration, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Promote a strong safety culture by enforcing laboratory safety protocols and ensuring compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage and maintain the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), including accurate data entry, user access, system updates, and training.
• Develop, implement, and uphold standardized laboratory procedures, work instructions, and quality protocols to ensure consistency and compliance with ISO 9001 and other standards.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance and Document Control teams to establish and maintain documentation and certification requirements.
• Act as the primary liaison for cross-functional communication, delivering timely and accurate lab data to Operations, Maintenance, Process Control, Reliability, Quality, PSM, Environmental, and other teams.
• Oversee inventory of laboratory supplies and chemicals, ensuring proper storage, labeling, handling of hazardous materials, and cost-effective procurement.
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance lab workflows, testing methods, and overall operational efficiency.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, regulatory changes, and new technologies, recommending and implementing best practices and innovations.
• Provide leadership, training, and mentorship to laboratory personnel, encouraging professional development and fostering a collaborative, high-performance work environment.
• Prepare for and support both internal and external audits, ensuring readiness and ongoing compliance with quality and safety standards.
• Develop, track, and analyze laboratory Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive operational performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings and projects, offering laboratory expertise to contribute to broader plant performance and strategic initiatives.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Prior experience in laboratory technician position.
• Bachelor's of Science Degree in Chemistry
• 10+ years of experience as a Laboratory Lead / Supervisor, preferably within LNG, gas, petrochemical or energy industries.
• Proven experience lead