Laboratory Manager -Analytical Laboratory

Company Description

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsible for the overall conduct and success of the laboratory including oversight of the daily operations, staffing, strategic planning, technical and quality processes and finance.  This position will oversee the analytical testing laboratory located in Brookings SD, focusing on nutrient quality testing in feed products.  

REPORTING LINE

• Directly reports to:  Director of Operations

JOB FUNCTIONS

• Manage laboratory staff, including prioritizing daily work and projects for the designated responsible lab.
• Oversee all people management for the designated , including hours’ management, hiring, personnel development, performance evaluation and training.
• Provide technical and quality oversight of testing of food and agricultural commodities; includes validating test results and working proactively with staff and clients to ensure quality, accuracy and efficiency in all processes.
• Responsible for designated lab’s P&L including increasing revenue and managing expenses to maintain an expected level of profitability.
• Implement routine methods for feed, crop, and seed testing depending on client needs and strategic planning
• Ensure adherence to SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and ISO accreditation and ensure proficiency testing and internal quality control is adequate and that procedures are routinely reviewed and updated
• Work with Sales and Business Development team to proactively initiate sales with current or prospective clients that contact the laboratory for expanding current testing activities or developing testing solutions for the client’s needs.
• Communicate with clients regularly to understand needs, as well as answer questions and provide information on testing methods and results.
• Work with Management Team to drive overall strategy for SGS Brookings and ensure the responsible lab is in alignment with larger goals and objectives.
• Assign and coordinate maintenance of testing equipment and the documentation thereof.
• Promote responsibility, good work habits, a positive work environment and improve customer service.
• At all times, comply with SGS Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct.

LEADERSHIP/SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides guidance and/or leadership to others, including indirect reports, peers, or managers  Yes
• Please provide examples of supervisory responsibilities
• Has hiring and terminating responsibilities  Yes
• Supervises others  Yes
• Number of employees directly reporting  Supervisory; 5-10 Non-Supervisory

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor Degree in Agricultural or Biological Sciences  Required
• At least 7 years experience in a laboratory setting  Required
• Must have professional working knowledge of and /or experience with scientific methods and experimental designs associated with designated laboratory.  Required

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS

• RST certification required for Seed Lab Manager,
•  May be dependent on designated lab

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES

• Experience and demonstrated ability to efficiently and effectively manage people, projects, and financials
• Must demonstrate effective supervisory/managerial skills, including personnel management of scientists, technicians, and seasonal workers.
• Ability to make timely, financially responsible, and effective independent decisions.
• Must be detail-oriented, well organized, and able to work independently and as part of an effective team.
• Strong understanding of and interest in US agronomic practices crop production.
• Excellent communications skills required at the local level with personnel and clients, and with SGS management.
• Must be able to work in a fast paced environment.
• Strong administrative, analytical and problem solving skills required.
• Ability to handle a variety of projects effectively, efficiently and with confidentiality.

ADDITIONAL KSAS

•  Proficiency in Microsoft Office to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint

EQUIPMENT

• This job operates in a professional laboratory environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers and phones, but also laboratory equipment, incl