Softlines Operation Supervisor

About the role

The Softlines Operations Supervisor guides day-to-day laboratory operations, ensuring consistency in processes and team alignment. This role oversees task execution, supports staff development, and maintains operational stability. The Supervisor plays a key role in advancing departmental goals through effective oversight.

Responsibilities

• Works in close coordination with the Laboratory Manager/director to manage staff schedules and assignments for the specific department/team
• Supervises and mentors laboratory staff (Technicians, Analysts, Assistants)
• Ensures tasks are completed efficiently, accurately, and within established turnaround times
• Maintains strict adherence to the established Quality Management system, quality control procedures, standard test methodologies, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Provides guidance and support in troubleshooting technical problems and ensuring process continuity
• Absolutely ensure accurate documentation of test results, maintain data integrity, and oversee proper recordkeeping
• Conducts performance reviews for direct reports
• Approves timecards and time off requests for direct reports. Manages inventory levels and supports the procurement of supplies and services for the operation
• Contributes to process improvement initiatives
• Supports Operation partners such as Client Services and Report writing teams and other internal customers, providing guidance and support as required
• Supports the development of new tests and services
• Performs other duties as required

Leadership/Supervisory Responsibilities

• Provides guidance and/or leadership to others, including indirect reports, peers, or managers
• Assigns daily tasks, monitors performance, provides on-the-job training, offers feedback, and supports onboarding of new staff
• Leads team meetings, supports conflict resolution, and ensures alignment with departmental goals
• Has hiring and terminating responsibilities
• Supervises others

Job Complexity

The SL Operations Supervisors manages a wide range of operational and technical responsibilities that require sound judgment and coordination across multiple teams. The role involves balancing daily workflow demands, resolving unexpected issues, and ensuring consistent adherence to laboratory protocols. Tasks often require interpreting policies, adjusting procedures, and making decisions that affect both short-term efficiency and long-term quality outcomes. The Supervisor must navigate competing priorities, support staff development, and maintain alignment with organizational standards while ensuring timely and accurate sample analysis.

Analytical Thinking/Problem Solving

The Laboratory Supervisor applies sound analytical judgment to resolve operational challenges, assess data quality, and support continuous improvement. This role involves reviewing complex reports, identifying patterns in testing outcomes, and guiding staff through troubleshooting procedures. The Supervisor evaluates root causes of recurring issues, recommends procedural adjustments, and ensures that corrective actions are implemented effectively. Strong problem-solving skills are essential to maintaining workflow efficiency, supporting client deliverables, and upholding laboratory standards.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in a scientific discipline (e.g., Associate Degree in the U.S. or College Diploma in Canada), or an equivalent combination of education and experience - Required
• Bachelor's Degree in a scientific discipline Preferred
• At least 5 years of relevant Textile testing and laboratory supervision

Additional KSAS

• Ability to manage and coordinate multiple projects in a fast-paced, highly professional environment

Equipment

This job operates in a laboratory environment. This role routinely uses standard laboratory instrumentation and equipment.

Compensation

The expected salary for this position is $90,000 per year. This range represents the minimum and maximum base salary we reasonably expect to pay for this role. Actual compensation within the range will depend on skills, experience, and qualifications.

Benefits

• Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, employee assistance programs
• Wealth: In addition to base pay, we offer 401(k) with company match (immediate vesting upon enrollment)
• Happiness: Professional Growth: Online training courses, virtual and classroom development experiences, tuition reimbursement program
• Work-Life Balance: Paid-time off and family leave

Additional Information

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. If you are applying for a position within the United States and you have difficulty completing the on-line employment application because of a disability, please call 201-508-3149 for assistance and leave a message. You will receive a callback. Please note, this phone number is not for general employment information but is only for individuals who are experiencing difficulty applying for a position due to a disability.