Microbiology Supervisor

About the role

The Microbiology Department Supervisor at our Middletown, PA location will successfully manage the following:

• Oversee the Microbiology Department, including managing day-to-day activities and overseeing the completion, review, and approval of analyses and associated quality control requirements to provide on-time, high-quality data.
• Oversee and manage a group of analysts and technicians to schedule the preparation and analysis of environmental samples using prescribed methods and standard operating procedures.
• Exercise and enforce laboratory safety practices.
• Maintain accurate knowledge of defined areas; keep abreast of state-of-the-art microbiological techniques, including recommendation and justification of new equipment when appropriate.
• Lead SOP development and review.
• Manage the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of microbiological instrumentation and equipment.
• Able to take ownership for meeting goals and objectives as defined by management.
• Actively participate in and ensure compliance with the laboratory's Quality System and ISO 17025 (NELAC standards).

About you

Responsible for overseeing a group of analysts and technicians and managing their training and professional development.

• Manage a group of analytical tests, including managing backlogs, turnaround time, and reviewing and approving data.
• Communicate with Project Management staff regarding turnaround time and due dates for projects.
• Utilize LIMS as well as computer software and systems required to process data.
• Accurately document and approve results in controlled logbooks, bench sheets, etc.
• Oversight of analysts preparing and/or analyzing batches of samples and accurately reviewing this information for compliance and completeness.
• Ensure that all quality control requirements associated with the department — including MDL/LOD/LOQ studies, SOP reviews, DOC requirements, CAR responses, and audit responses — are completed in a timely manner.
• Work with the Health and Safety Manager to maintain safe working conditions, properly handle hazardous and biological materials, and ensure the use of appropriate personal protective equipment by departmental personnel.
• Maintain and promote a clean, orderly, and sterile work environment.
• Lead development and implementation of new microbiological analytical methods and technologies when mandated by changes in regulations or client needs.
• Complete performance evaluations and establish individual goals for departmental personnel on an annual basis.

Required Qualifications

• Diligent work ethic and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage numerous details simultaneously.
• High energy level, confidence, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
• A commitment to cross-training across relevant microbiological disciplines.
• Knowledge of and ability to teach laboratory analytical skills and oversee maintenance of training documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with computer systems; a working knowledge of Excel spreadsheets is a must.
• Ability to work irregularly scheduled hours including overtime, as required.
• Dedication to supporting the goals, objectives, and philosophies of ALS.
• A four-year college degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related scientific field required.
• At least 16 credit semester courses in Biology, of which 4 must be in Microbiology.
• A minimum of 2 years' experience in testing microbiology or environmental laboratory setting required.
• Familiarity with microbiological methods, including culture-based, membrane filtration, PCR, and/or other standard microbiological techniques required.
• Masters degree in Chemistry or Biology is preferred, but not required.

Physical Demands

• The ability to stand for intervals of up to 8+ hours while working.
• Dexterity in hands and fingers to operate computers and other equipment.
• Able to speak and hear clearly while communicating with staff, management, and clients.
• Dexterity in hands and fingers to operate laboratory instrumentation and handle glassware and biological samples.
• Must have average vision and be able to read reports, view microscopy results, and operate equipment.
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.