Laboratory Section Supervisor - Wet Chem

Assumes responsibility for working independently and exercising competent judgment in performing a variety of complex biological identifications and chemical analyses on water and wastewater samples.  Performs with high proficiency on all advanced laboratory instrumentation and uses knowledge of scientific methodology to develop more efficient procedures.  Supervises laboratory sections personnel to ensure chemical and biological analysis are performed timely and meet defined quality criteria.

1. Oversees all analytical processes in assigned laboratory work area to meet designated project goals including holding and turnaround times.
2. Oversees daily staffing requirements in assigned work area.
3. Oversees training of new personnel in assigned work area.
4. Oversees QA/QC functions as outlined by lab quality system for area analytical protocols.
5. Oversees safety protocols in assigned work area.
6. Prepares technical reports under the direction of Laboratory Operations Manager as needed.
7. Oversees data review processes including secondary review.
8. Oversees preparation of highly specific bacteriological media and chemical standards for specialized requirements in assigned work areas.
9. Assists adherence to NELAP Quality System Standards.
10. Assists in reviews, audits, documentation, and special technical lab reports associated with assigned work area.
11. Performs analytical procedures as needed.
12. Oversees maintaining equipment and laboratory area to ensure the accuracy of measurements and the proper cleanliness and functional operation of the equipment.
13. Oversees adequate stock of chemicals, standards, and reagents of assigned lab area.
14. Recommends laboratory improvements, such as laboratory personnel positions, analytical equipment purchases, analytical methods, laboratory information services, and laboratory quality systems.
15. Member of Laboratory Management Group.
16. Serving as a laboratory technical director depending on experience level.

1. Capable of developing mechanical abilities to operate and maintain complex laboratory instruments and to understand their operation with a high degree of competence with careful attention to details. 
2. High mathematical ability required.
3. Membership in the Texas Water Utilities Association and the North Texas Lab Analysts Association is desirable.

1. Degree in Biology/Chemistry, or a related physical science received from a college or university accredited by a National Association.  Experience of the specified type may be substituted on a year for year basis for the desired education.
2. Ability to obtain a Class "B" Water and Wastewater Certification.
3. Requires a valid Texas Driver’s License.

Moderate physical labor and considerable mental attention required with some eyestrain.  General desirable conditions with safety protocol.  Potential hazards include pesticides, carcinogens, pathogenic organisms, highly flammable solvents and chemical fumes.  Equipment used includes the following: Network Computer System, Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer, UV-Vis Spectrophotometer, Latchat Quickchem 8000 auto Chemistry Analyzer, Incubators, Sterilizers, Compound and Dissecting Microscopes, Total Organic Carbon Analyzer, Millipore Water System (Reverse Osmosis and Deionizing), Analytical Balances, Specific Ion Probes and Meters, Autoclaves, basic laboratory equipment, glassware, and High Speed Centrifuge.