Color Lab Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: Tnemec North Kansas City - NORTH KANSAS CITY, MO 64116Position Type: Full TimeJob Title
Color Department Manager (NKC)

Department
Color / Color Lab / Color Sample Department

Reporting Structure

Reports To: Director of Quality Control, Color, and Testing Labs
Direct Reports: Color Chemists, Color Sample Technicians, and/or Color Specialists
Indirect Influence: Product Support, R&D, Production, and QC personnel

Primary Purpose

The Color Department Manager is responsible for leading all North Kansas City based color-related operations within the organization, including color file development, color sample production, color matching systems, and color-related production support.

This role ensures the delivery of consistent, high-quality color performance across products and manufacturing sites while developing team capability, driving process improvements, and aligning color operations with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & People Management

Directly manage, coach, and develop Color Department personnel, including performance management, training, and career development.
Build and maintain strong team capability in color matching, file development, instrumentation, and systems use.
Establish clear expectations, priorities, and accountability for safety, quality, and productivity.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement, ownership, and collaboration across departments.

1. Color Operations Ownership

Oversee all color file development for new products, processes, and equipment implementations.
Ensure the production of high-quality color samples meeting internal and customer specifications.
Manage workload prioritization to meet deadlines, business needs, and customer requirements.
Maintain efficient workflows for color matching, file building, and sample preparation.

1. Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with R&D, Product Development, and Product Support to define color acceptance criteria and evaluate color feasibility.
Work closely with Production and QC to support manufacturing operations and resolve color-related issues.
Interface with Sales, Customer Service, and Marketing to support customer needs and sample deliverables.
Collaborate with suppliers and external partners on pigments, colorants, and color technologies.

1. Production Support & Troubleshooting

Lead investigation and resolution of color-related production issues and customer complaints.
Provide guidance on off-spec color batches, including rework, correction, or disposition recommendations.
Support troubleshooting across multiple sites and systems, including color instrumentation and software.

1. Quality & Standards Management

Ensure adherence to company standards, testing methods, and documentation requirements.
Review and improve color processes to ensure accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency.

1. Systems, Technology & Data

Oversee use and optimization of color instrumentation and software (e.g., DataColor systems).
Ensure proper use of formulation systems and analytical tools (Excel-based tools).
Maintain accurate and traceable data systems for formulations, samples, and color files.
Evaluate and implement improvements in color technology, automation, and workflows.

1. Documentation & Reporting

Ensure all color-related work is well-documented, traceable, and audit-ready.

Internal & External Relationships

R&D / Product Development
Product Support / QC / Testing Lab
Production (KC, Baltimore, and other sites)

Sales, Marketing, Customer Service

Purchasing and Suppliers

Rework Teams

QualificationsRequired Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

Technical Expertise

Advanced knowledge of color matching, color file development, and coatings technology.
Strong understanding of colorants, pigments, and manufacturing processes.
Strong understanding of color measurement systems and instrumentation.

Leadership Skills

Proven ability to lead teams, develop talent, and drive performance.
Strong decision-making and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment.
Effective communicator across technical and non-technical audiences.

Operational Excellence

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and quality.
Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific field preferred.
7–10+ years of experience in coatings, color technology, or related field.
Prior experience in team leadership or supervisory role strongly preferred.
Proficiency with color software systems.
Ability to meet color aptitude requirements where applicable.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

Frequent standing/walking; computer work required.
Operation of laboratory and batch equipment.

Safety & Compliance

All employees are required to follow company safety policies and procedures and will receive training in hazardous, safety, and environmental practices.