Environmental Microbiology Supervisor

State of Colorado • Denver, CO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is seeking an Environmental Microbiology Supervisor to lead the Environmental Microbiology Program. This unit performs analytical laboratory testing on environmental samples like water and food, and supports FDA Grade “A” regulatory requirements for milk product testing. The supervisor will direct and oversee daily laboratory operations, personnel, testing activities, and quality systems to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant analytical services supporting public health, environmental monitoring, and regulatory programs. This role ensures samples are handled, tested, documented, and reported according to EPA, FDA, ISO, state, and federal regulations, as well as laboratory accreditation standards and quality management system procedures. The position also involves performing testing and providing technical guidance to staff on methodologies, result interpretation, troubleshooting, and testing algorithms.

Requirements

• A combination of related education in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, science and/or relevant experience in biology, method development and validation, laboratory work, chemistry, or related to the work assigned equal to nine (9) years closely related work assigned to this position.
• Must be a current resident of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application.
• Ability to quality as a Technical Supervisor under CLIA regulations within 1 year of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Masters or PhD in Microbiology or related field
• Two (2)+ years experience directly supervising high complexity testing in a CLIA or ISO17025 regulated laboratory
• Demonstrated expertise in conducting method development and validation studies, including experience with troubleshooting existing methodologies, developing method validation plans, and creating standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Familiarity with relevant regulatory requirements and compliance standards in the context of laboratory testing, particularly as they pertain to public health and safety.
• Proficiency in handling and manipulating hazardous chemicals and high-pressure gases, as well as operating, calibrating, and maintaining analytical equipment used in quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, demonstrated experience in advising and training other team members, and active participation in collaborative problem-solving initiatives.
• Ability to perform and interpret complex scientific analyses accurately and efficiently, with attention to detail and adherence to quality assurance requirements.
• Capacity to adapt to new technologies, methodologies, and procedures in a dynamic and fast-paced work environment.
• Proven ability to identify and address analytical trends, troubleshoot issues, and resolve challenges related to sample analyses and laboratory operations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey technical information and provide scientific consultation and recommendations to team members and stakeholders.
• Capacity to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and maintain accurate and well-documented records to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
• Dedication to maintaining a safe laboratory environment, including the proper handling of hazardous chemicals and adherence to safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Direct, supervise, train, mentor, and evaluate professional, technical, and support staff within the Environmental Microbiology Unit.
• Plan, prioritize, assign, and monitor workload to ensure timely completion of testing, reporting, and project deliverables.
• Provide technical guidance and oversight to staff regarding testing methodologies, interpretation of results, troubleshooting, and implementation of established testing algorithms.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Oversee daily laboratory operations to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant testing services.
• Ensure specimens and environmental samples are received, handled, processed, tested, documented, and reported according to applicable EPA, FDA, ISO, state, and federal requirements.
• Perform testing as needed using approved methodologies and established testing algorithms.
• Review, evaluate, and authorize analytical data, reports, and technical findings for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Perform and oversee quality assurance and quality control activities, including proficiency testing and quality monitoring programs.
• Lead method development, validation, verification, implementation, and performance evaluation activities.
• Evaluate emerging technologies, instrumentation, and analytical methods to improve laboratory capabilities.
• Develop, review, revise, and approve standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, validation protocols, and associated technical documentation.
• Monitor method performance and implement improvements based on quality indicators, regulatory changes, and scientific advancements.
• Maintain oversight of laboratory quality systems, accreditation requirements, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist with laboratory information management, data integrity, record retention, and documentation requirements.
• Coordinate equipment procurement, maintenance, calibration, qualification, and service activities.
• Manage laboratory inventory, supplies, reagents, and consumables to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Manage unit budgets, financial resources, purchasing activities, contracts, and equipment acquisitions.
• Serve as a liaison between the Environmental Microbiology Unit, laboratory leadership, clients, regulatory agencies, and external stakeholders.
• Provide technical consultation and subject matter expertise to clients, partners, regulatory agencies, academic institutions, and other stakeholders.
• Respond to client inquiries and resolve service-related concerns in a professional and timely manner.
• Communicate analytical findings, testing limitations, quality concerns, and technical recommendations to clients and collaborators.

Benefits

• Medical and dental plans
• Colorado PERA retirement options, including defined benefit plan or defined contribution plan
• Optional 401(K) and 457 retirement plans
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Potential flexible working arrangements
• 11 paid holidays per year
• Generous paid time off
• Free parking and access to RTD bus lines
• Tuition assistance
• Employee wellness programs
• Professional development opportunities
• Career opportunities throughout Colorado state government
• Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager