Technical Manager - Forever Chemicals

PFAS Technical Manager - Forever Chemicals

Location: Augusta, Maine
Schedule: Full-Time, Onsite (40 hours/week)
Pay Rate: $68,057.60 annually

The Maine Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) is seeking a knowledgeable and experienced PFAS Technical Manager to manage the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) testing section within HETL. This position plays a critical role in safeguarding public health by overseeing laboratory operations, ensuring the timely delivery of accurate analytical results, and supporting the State of Maine's environmental and public health initiatives.

The PFAS Technical Manager will provide technical leadership, staff supervision, quality oversight, and hands‑on laboratory support while ensuring compliance with regulatory and accreditation requirements.

Laboratory Operations & Leadership

• Manage the daily operations of the PFAS testing section.
• Supervise, mentor, and train laboratory staff.
• Ensure testing workloads are completed accurately and within established turnaround times.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external customers regarding testing activities and results.
• Coordinate laboratory resources, scheduling, and staffing needs.

Technical & Scientific Responsibilities

• Perform and support PFAS testing using advanced analytical instrumentation.
• Review and evaluate analytical data to ensure scientific validity and regulatory compliance.
• Provide technical review and approval of laboratory results.
• Participate in proficiency testing and quality assurance activities.
• Lead method development, validation, and implementation projects.
• Troubleshoot and assist with maintenance of specialized laboratory equipment.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with CLIA, ISO 17025, and laboratory quality standards.
• Participate in internal and external audits.
• Oversee quality control procedures, instrument maintenance, and documentation requirements.
• Support safety initiatives, risk assessments, and continuous process improvement efforts.
• Monitor inventory levels of chemicals, standards, and laboratory supplies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Laboratory Science, or a closely related field
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in an analytical laboratory environment.
• At least 24 semester hours of Chemistry, including 8 semester hours of Analytical Chemistry.
• Experience performing laboratory validations and technical reviews.
• Experience utilizing advanced analytical instrumentation, including:
  • LC-MS/MS
  • GC/MS
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and laboratory software.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Experience working in a CLIA‑certified laboratory, including at least two (2) years analyzing patient samples.
• Experience in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
• Strong knowledge of quality assurance and quality control practices.
• Experience conducting presentations, training staff, and leading technical initiatives.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a highly specialized laboratory team supporting critical environmental and public health testing across Maine. You'll have the opportunity to shape laboratory operations, develop staff, implement new technologies, and contribute to meaningful work that impacts communities throughout the state.

Compensation: $68,057.60
Location: Augusta, ME
Work Environment: Onsite laboratory setting with limited remote work availability
Schedule: Monday through Friday, generally between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM

At SSO, we invest in our people - supporting your health, financial security, and growth.

Benefits include:

• Health, vision, and dental insurance
• 401(k) with discretionary employer match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible spending accounts
• Other Perks