Laboratory Manager

Science you can trust from concept to consumer.

Since 1967, Deibel Laboratories has operated several private food testing facilities providing services in both Microbiology and Chemistry testing. We play an integral role in food and product safety for industry-leading producers, as well as family run operations much like our own. Our location in Chester, Virginia is currently looking to hire a full-time Microbiology Lab Manager (40 hours/week plus benefits included).

We offer a competitive salary based upon knowledge and experience. This position includes full health benefits for self and family (employer pays for 100% of employee premiums and 50% of dependents on our base plan). Deibel also offers a self-funded dental plan, vision plan, and 401K option along with profit sharing.

Check out our website to learn more about our location and what we do: www.DeibelLabs.com.

Compensation: Starting salary is $52,000 DOE plus a competitive benefits package.

Schedule: Full Time – TBD Will require some weekend work.

Overview:

The Laboratory Manager will provide operational and technical support of the lab. Support will be essential in aiding the function, and success of our Chester, Virginia. The Lab Manager will lead laboratory operations, perform testing of food products and environmental samples, and will be responsible for the application and evaluation of approved techniques and methodologies used in analysis of food products. They will have frequent contact with the client base as well as review, reporting, and interpretation of laboratory results in collaboration with the management team. They will be responsible for overseeing the daily workload and staffing in the laboratory.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Prepare, analyze, perform, and assist others with the microbiological preparation and testing of food samples.
• Ensure all department opening and closing tasks are completed effectively and efficiently and documented as quality systems require.
• Distribute projects or assignments to appropriate personnel within the department to ensure processes are efficiently and effectively completed.
• Ensure sample analysis flow if efficient in conjunction with quality.
• Ensure safe working environment for laboratory and provide supervision of quality control and quality assurance procedures.
• Assist with scheduling and adjusting staff as needed based on sample volume ensuring minimal delays or down time in processes.
• Support leadership in employee development by providing effective training to new employees and acting as a resource to all department employees in the resolution of questions, problems, or alternative resources.
• Possess good working/operational knowledge and troubleshooting capabilities of analytical instrumentation such as FDA/BAM, AOAC methodologies, ELISA/VIDAS, PCR, and cultural.
• Ensure sample compositing, in -process and finished product testing, and reporting is effective, accurate, and timely to facilitate the efficient release of results to clients.
• Identify and implement improvements in efficiency, cost effectiveness, methodology, and safety within the lab environment.
• Ensure lab Technicians are following GLP’s and GMP’s and monitor proficiency program for compliance with requirement.
• Communicate with other departments as well as management on department needs.
• Ensure client specific requirements are being met.
• Assist with selection and orientation of new hires
• Work with Human Resources on identifying and correcting performance issues and recognizing outstanding performers.
• Ensure effective utilization of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) – as it pertains to batching, reports traceability, etc.
• Ensure lab procedures and methods are consistently delivering accurate results.
• Identify and implement corrective actions and/or preventive actions as needed in the lab.
• Ensure actions are completed in timely manner and ensure actions are effective.
• Maintain records to comply with regulatory and business requirements.
• Maintain flexibility to incorporate changing responsibilities to meet evolving lab needs.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• A general knowledge of food science to accurately perform testing procedures and obtain accurate results.
• A broad knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and policies is necessary to ensure a safe working environment. Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities.
• A general level of data entry skills is needed to calculate and record analysis results.
• Analytical skills are helpful to complete analysis procedures.
• Physical dexterity with pipetting is required to transfer sample into plates and tubes.
• Laboratory skills obtained as a laboratory technician or similar position are essential to perform the necessary analyses.
• Oral and written communication skills are necessary to supervise departmental personnel.
• Associates degree or equivalent work experience required.
• Bachelors preferred but not required; Equivalent combination of education and/or experience will be considered.
• Must live within 30 miles of the lab - no relocation packages available

We'd Love to Hear from People With:

• The ability to perform quantitative analysis, strong problem-solving skills, ability to multi task, meet deadlines, and work in a fast paced environment.
• Ability to perform work accurately, reliably, thoroughly, timely, and within safety guidelines.
• Ability to administer quality decisions soundly and consistently with policies and in compliance with appropriate laws and regulations.
• Skills to communicate effectively and develop good working relationships with all employees.
• A professional workplace appearance, ethical conduct, honesty, and integrity in all communications.
• A thirst to seek out and participate in appropriate training and professional development.
• Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
• Computer skills and proficiency with MS Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Results oriented and able to lead an effective team and demonstrated team-based problem-solving skills.
• Well organized and self-directed individual focused on achieving the organizational goals and initiatives.

Physical Requirements:

• Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals, and materials will occur when in the laboratory.
• Safety equipment of gloves, laboratory coat and eyeglasses may need to be worn depending on the testing process.
• Extended time spent in a standing position.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Deibel is committed to fostering a diverse and welcoming workplace with people of all types of backgrounds and experiences.