LABORATORY SUPERVISOR

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were written out in this job description. 
JOB SUMMARY
The Laboratory Supervisor is responsible for the overall administration, supervision, and technical operation of the City's water and wastewater laboratory. This position oversees laboratory personnel and ensures that all laboratory testing, sampling, analysis, and reporting activities are conducted accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

• Assigns and schedules tasks for water and wastewater laboratory personnel analyzing water and wastewater compliance and process control samples.
• Responds to internal and external customer complaints and concerns.
• Coordinates water line testing.
• Monitors the use and availability of consumable lab materials, reagents, equipment, and supplies for water and wastewater analyses.
• Ensures employees follow standard operating procedures.
• Reviews and analyzes data.
• Compiles employee assessments and proficiency information for the preparation of annual employee performance evaluations.
• Conducts employee training on rules and regulations governing laboratory certification.
• Conducts laboratory equipment maintenance, calibration, and repair.
• Conducts water and wastewater sampling and laboratory analyses.
• Conducts and coordinates OSHA safety meetings.
• Performs other related job duties as assigned. 

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science, microbiology, or a closely related scientific field.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in an environmental, water, wastewater, or analytical laboratory.
• At least two (2) years of supervisory or lead-worker experience, preferably in a laboratory environment.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered in accordance with City personnel policies.

Special Qualifications:

• Must obtain and maintain applicable North Carolina laboratory certifications or qualifications required for assigned laboratory testing responsibilities.
• North Carolina Water Pollution Control System Operator or Water Treatment Facility Operator certification is desirable but not required.
• Valid North Carolina driver's license.

• Thorough knowledge of laboratory testing methods and analytical procedures applicable to drinking water and wastewater treatment.
• Knowledge of EPA, NCDEQ, and other applicable environmental and drinking water regulations.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance and quality control practices.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to interpret analytical results and identify trends or abnormalities that may affect treatment operations or regulatory compliance.
• Ability to supervise, motivate, train, and evaluate employees.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple assignments while meeting regulatory deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in laboratory information management systems, data management, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to prepare technical reports, maintain accurate records, and communicate technical information to management and operational personnel.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, initiative, and independent decision-making.

• Skill in analyzing problems and identifying solutions.
• Skill in the collection and analysis of water and wastewater samples.
• Skill in preparing clear and accurate reports.
• Skill in establishing cooperative and productive working relationships.
• Skill in setting priorities for competing projects.
• Skill in performing mathematical calculations.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS: The Water Quality Services Superintendent assigns work in terms of divisional goals and objectives. The supervisor reviews work through conferences, reports, and observation of division activities.

GUIDELINES: Guidelines include the Clean Water Act; the Safe Drinking Water Act; state rules governing public water systems; state drinking water laboratory certification requirements; pretreatment rules and standards; and the Rocky Mount Sewer Use Ordinances. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application. This position develops division guidelines.

COMPLEXITY: The work consists of varied management and supervisory duties. Competing priorities contribute to the complexity of the work.

SCOPE AND EFFECT: The purpose of this position is to oversee the provision of technical and laboratory support for water and wastewater system operations. Success in this position ensures compliance with state and federal regulations.

PERSONAL CONTACTS: Contacts are typically with Industrial Discharge customers, representatives of other local governments, other City personnel, co-workers, vendors, and state and federal regulatory agents.

PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, provide services, and motivate and influence persons.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light objects and uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors. The employee is exposed to dust, dirt, grease, contagious diseases, irritating chemicals, and occasional cold or inclement weather. The work requires protective devices such as masks, goggles, and gloves.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY: This position has direct supervision over three (3) Laboratory Analysts.