Linda McCandless
Katy,Texas
Summary
Results-driven Quality Assurance Laboratory Manager with experience in the chemical, oilfield, adhesives and sealants, polymer and cementing industries. Proven expertise in leading quality systems, optimizing laboratory operations, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations, including ISO auditing and OSHA standards. Strong track record of fostering product development while maintaining regulatory compliance in high-performance environments. Dedicated to cultivating quality cultures and enhancing laboratory efficiency while upholding environmental, financial, and safety standards.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Quality Assurance / Laboratory Management
Weatherford
01.2023 - 08.2024
- Led QA initiatives across laboratory operations for oilfield services, specifically pressure pumping and drilling fluids for labs in Houston, Columbia, Mexico and Saudi Arabia, which resulted in a monthly savings of $80,000 monthly and lowered customer complaints.
- Enhanced, developed lab processes in line with OSHA, ISO and TEEK shipping standards, to bring savings of $10, 000 quarterly.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
QA Lab Manager / Safety Manager
Chemsystems
06.2021 - 11.2023
- Managed lab teams and quality testing for decorative concrete, cementing, cement color matching and chemical formulations
- Drove audit readiness and maintained ISO documentation
- Conducted hazardous/non-hazardous sample shipping under compliance with resulted in a savings of $3000 monthly
- Oversaw laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
- Managed staff scheduling and training to optimize workflow efficiency and team performance.
QA & Product Development Manager
Access Chemicals
06.2014 - 07.2019
- Spearheaded development of new chemical blends for oilfield use
- Oversaw QA testing procedures, equipment calibration, and lab safety protocols
- Authored and implemented Quality Management System and ISO Procedures
- Oversaw product lifecycle management, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with industry regulations.
- Led cross-functional teams to develop innovative chemical products aligned with market demands.
Lab Supervisor / QA Coordinator
Schlumberger
01.2002 - 01.2015
- - Directed QA operations in high-volume testing environments
- - Led internal audits and maintained ISO compliance across product lines
- - Mentored junior chemists and introduced lab safety training modules
Laboratory Technician → QA Lead
Shell Chemical
01.1989 - 01.2002
- - Started as a lab technician and progressed to QA lead
- - Participated in process improvement and product formulation testing
- - Supported early ISO standardization efforts and team safety protocols
Education
Bachelor of Science - Analytical Chemistry
University of Houston
01.2003
Associate of Applied Science - Chemistry
Texas State Technical College (TSTC)
Harlingen, Texas01.1989
Skills
- ISO Auditing & Documentation
- Quality Assurance Leadership
- Product Development & Testing
- Lab Operations Management
- OSHA & TEEK Compliance
- Safety Training & Risk Mitigation
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Chemical, Oilfield, & Cementing Industry Expertise
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Flexible and adaptable
Accomplishments
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
- Supervised team of 8 staff members.
- Documented and resolved safety non compliances which led to fewer incidents and better training.
Certification
- ISO Certified Auditor – 2014
- TEEK Certified Hazardous/Non-Hazardous Sample Shipping
- OSHA Safety Compliance & Lab Safety Oversight
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
Quality Assurance / Laboratory Management
Weatherford
01.2023 - 08.2024
QA Lab Manager / Safety Manager
Chemsystems
06.2021 - 11.2023
QA & Product Development Manager
Access Chemicals
06.2014 - 07.2019
Lab Supervisor / QA Coordinator
Schlumberger
01.2002 - 01.2015
Laboratory Technician → QA Lead
Shell Chemical
01.1989 - 01.2002
Associate of Applied Science - Chemistry
Texas State Technical College (TSTC)
Bachelor of Science - Analytical Chemistry
University of Houston