Laboratory Supervisor

Under the general direction of the Senior Laboratory Manager (SLM) oversees the daily activities associated with the collection of samples for process control/special projects and laboratory analyses for chemical, biochemical, physical, and microbiological properties of water, wastewater, biosolids and soil samples. Supervises Laboratory Analysts and other staff as assigned.

Examples of Duties:

1. Plans, schedules, and reviews of the work of laboratory analysts. 
2. Ensures standard operating procedures are followed by laboratory analysts for routine sampling, chain of custody, analyses, storage, and disposal. Assists in the development and review of laboratory procedures.
3. Provides technical direction and support to laboratory analysts and assists with method development to ensure that analytical goals are achieved. Oversees designated areas in the laboratory and assists lead analysts with technical issues and improvements.
4. Conducts all review and validation of analytical data. Troubleshoots and resolves data inconsistencies.
5. Prioritizes analytical work and process control/special project sample collection to meet the timeliness and quality needs of internal customers. Directly performs analytical work and process control sample collection as needed to support staff workload and/or ensure that internal customer needs are met.
6. Implements laboratory standards in accordance with the established laboratory quality assurance/quality control program. Reviews laboratory data to ensure compliance with the QA/QC program. Ensures completeness and accuracy of E. Coli data used for regulatory compliance. 
7. Identifies areas for improved efficiencies and streamlining of processes. Participates in and leads continuous improvement projects and teams.
8. Ensures adequate supplies. Requisitions laboratory supplies, testing, and other equipment as necessary. Monitors and tracks service contracts on assigned areas of the lab.
9. Evaluates performance of laboratory instruments and equipment. Develops and implements preventive maintenance programs to maintain the effectiveness of instruments, equipment, and facilities. Initiates and administers maintenance work orders and performs minor repairs as needed.
10. Participates in employee selection process and evaluates performance and skill levels of laboratory analysts, providing training, counseling, and discipline as necessary. Maintains performance documentation of lab personnel.
11. Evaluates analytical equipment needs and performs cost/benefit analyses, makes recommendations to the SLM or Department Head. Assists SLM with budgeting and planning. Coordinates and tracks service contracts for analytical equipment. Works with Procurement to acquire instrumentation and equipment.
12. Monitors personnel, facilities, and conditions to ensure safety.
13. Assists with updates of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and making modifications as needed.
14. Coordinates and collaborates with the Regulatory Affairs Division to ensure proper handling and disposal of chemicals and hazardous wastes.
15. Performs other tasks as assigned.

Qualifications:

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
 
Knowledge of:

• Laboratory instrumentation and lab safety 
• Core wastewater analysis
• Laboratory procedures and techniques including the collection of wastewater samples
• Basic mathematics, including use of statistics
• Laboratory QA/QC processes 
• Chemical handling and hazardous waste disposal 
• MS Office software and general office processes and procedures 

 
Skilled at:

• Operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment 
• Working in a laboratory performing chemical, biochemical, or microbiological analyses 
• Training and mentoring staff 
• Utilizing technology to seek and share resources and information 
• Project leadership or supervising staff
• Active and empathic listening skills 
• Managing disagreements, de-escalating conflict, and negotiating win-win solutions 
• Using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

 
Ability to:

• Train analysts on the collection of wastewater samples and on core wastewater analyses 
• Collecting samples for water quality analysis 
• Effectively supervise staff
• Effectively communicate and interact with staff both orally and in writing 
• Perform effectively in a collaborative team environment 
• Think and act strategically in an organizational” Big Picture” context 
• Identify problems, craft effective solutions, act decisively and demonstrate good judgement 
• Maintain emotional control under ambiguous and stressful circumstances 

 
Education
 
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in chemistry, biology, or related science field required. A combination of education and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Working Conditions:

Typical Work Environment
Frequent inside Laboratory setting; Outside environment in all Colorado weather conditions and temperatures when collecting samples; Hot frequent ovens and direct sun; Inside cold refrigerator; Wet/Humidity Conditions; Residential and Commercial wastewater/Biosolids; Variety of floor surfaces including concrete; Gravel; Asphalt; Dirt; Tile; Loose stones; Uneven surfaces; Slippery surfaces; Wet surfaces; Frequent work with acids, phosphorus, ammonia; Occasion work with hazards materials - acid; Lighting conditions including natural light; fluorescent; incandescent; and low light; Vibration; Moving equipment such as carboys, sample sticks, trays; Driving vehicles
 
Body Position Demands
Standing; Walking; Sitting; Climbing stairs; Reaching forward and overhead; Balancing; Object handling; Simple hand/ Firm hand grasping; Operating controls; Sitting; Stooping; Crouching; Typing; Fine hand coordination and movements
 
Physical Demands (max forces are expected to be infrequent)
Max Weight Lifted: 35 lbs
Max Weight Carried: 35 lbs
Max Force Pushed: 22 lbs
Max Force Pulled: 80 lbs
 
Sensory Requirements
Wide field of view; Perception - Spatial; Olfactory (Smelling); Vision – Frequently near and far and going between; Depth perception; Perception identifying objects in space and by site; Color discrimination amongst liquids; Feeling without seeing; Speaking; Hearing