Parks and Natural Resources - Natural Resources Lab Manager

Polk County, FL • Bartow, FL

350d • $64,209 - $64,209

About The Position

The Natural Resources Lab Manager is responsible for overseeing, supervising, and participating in the operations of a State-certified environmental water testing laboratory. This role includes upholding the lab's Ethics and Data Integrity statement, following established procedures, and ensuring compliance with regulations related to laboratory operations. The manager will select appropriate analytical procedures, develop improved laboratory techniques, maintain laboratory equipment, and manage inventory and budgeting for laboratory supplies. Additionally, the manager will supervise and train personnel, approve lab work schedules, and ensure the accuracy and validity of test data. The position also involves acting as the Laboratory QA Officer, developing quality assurance programs, and maintaining necessary documentation for laboratory certification.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in chemistry, biology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years analytical chemistry laboratory experience, including two years of supervisory experience.
• Valid driver's license and ability to secure a valid Florida driver's license.
• Demonstrated capability for all analytes on lab's Scope of Accreditation within 6 months of hire.
• For chemical analyses: at least 24 college semester credit hours in chemistry and two years of experience in environmental analysis.
• For microbiological analyses: at least 16 college semester credit hours in biology and one year of experience in microbiological analyses.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and participate in the operations of a State-certified environmental water testing laboratory.
• Uphold the lab's Ethics and Data Integrity statement.
• Select appropriate analytical procedures for the laboratory.
• Develop improved laboratory techniques and methods for new analytes.
• Ensure proper maintenance, storage, and accounting of laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Schedule and ensure maintenance/certification of lab equipment.
• Ensure compliance with regulations related to laboratory waste disposal.
• Manage inventory, budgeting, and ordering of laboratory supplies.
• Assist with preparation of Quality Assurance Project Plans.
• Hire, supervise, evaluate, and train assigned personnel.
• Approve laboratory and field work schedules and oversee daily operations.
• Provide accuracy and validity of test data information at hearings and courts.
• Act as Laboratory QA Officer and develop quality assurance/quality control programs.
• Conduct audits and investigations into data quality or results.
• Collect surface water samples and calibrate field equipment as needed.
• Maintain lab water quality database/LIMS and ensure data integrity.
• Participate in budget preparation and monitor program objectives.

Benefits

• Direct Deposit, Bi-Weekly Pay Checks
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life Insurance
• FRS Retirement
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Education Incentives
• Deferred Compensation Plan
• Wellness Incentives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Free Employee Gym
• Free Employee Health Clinic

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees