Chief of Laboratory Operations

Posted on Jan 11, 2024
The Chief of Laboratory Operations provides leadership and oversight of the Henrico County Central Environmental Laboratory (HCCEL). The HCCEL is a VELAP accredited laboratory, certified to analyze both drinking water and wastewater for the Henrico County Department of Public Utilities.
Location
Henrico, VA, US
   
Organization Name
County of Henrico Department of Public Utilities
   
About Us
Henrico County, a progressive employer of choice, provides job seekers with the promise of fair and competitive compensation; a close-knit atmosphere with low employee turnover; and a benefits package that helps secure financial stability.
Established in 1611, Henrico County has deep historical roots.  Henrico County borders the City of Richmond to the west, north and east and constitutes approximately a third of the Richmond metropolitan areas.  Henrico County is among the top-rated counties in the nation and was one of the first localities to adopt the County Manager Form of Government.  Citizens of Henrico County are represented by an elected Board of Supervisors representing five magisterial districts.
Henrico County General Government currently has more than 30 agencies.  Department Heads are appointed by the County Manager, with the exception of the elected constitutional officers.  Henrico County is an equal opportunity employer and, when you join us, you will be surrounded by fellow associates who come from all walks of life, all types of cultural backgrounds and all ages.
   
General Statement of Duties
 
 
Supervises the operation of the water reclamation facility laboratory; does related work as required.
 
Closing date:  This position closes Monday, January 22, 2024.
   
Essential Duties
 
 
The Chief of Laboratory Operations provides leadership and oversight of the Henrico County Central Environmental Laboratory (HCCEL). The HCCEL is a VELAP accredited laboratory, certified to analyze both drinking water and wastewater for the Henrico County Department of Public Utilities.
The essential duties of this position include:
  • Supervision and training of laboratory personnel.
  • Preparation of various analytical reports for regulating bodies, including VA DEQ and VDH.
  • Preparation of analytical reports for internal Henrico County clients.
  • Organizes various regulatory drinking water monitoring programs mandated by the State.
  • Maintains the laboratory budget and participates in annual budget planning.
  • Works with Finance Dept. to obtain contracts for laboratory equipment/supplies and laboratory services.
  • Participation in VELAP audits, including preparation of required audit packet.
  • Manages the laboratory’s LIMS software system and handles any issues with the vendor/developer.
  • Helps with implementation of new or replacement instruments.
  • Maintains active role in all meetings involving Henrico County leadership for any matter pertaining to laboratory duties and functions.
  • Coordinates with treatment plant Operations and Pretreatment sections to communicate results and organize any special projects that would require support from the laboratory.
  • Helps update and review SOPs and Laboratory Procedures.
The Chief of Laboratory Operations shall have the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
  • Considerable knowledge of principles, practices and techniques of chemistry and microbiology to maintain VELAP accreditation for the laboratory.
  • Ability to analyze, evaluate and make recommendations concerning laboratory tests.
  • Extensive knowledge of the operation and maintenance of equipment used in a water quality laboratory.
  • Sound attention to detail and organization skills.
  • Time management skills to successfully complete assigned tasks accurately and in a timely manner within established deadlines, specifications, and regulations.
  • Personal accountability and integrity.
  • Ability to read, and accurately comprehend, interpret, apply, and communicate findings.
  • Sound judgement, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with the ability to appropriately recognize issues and collaborate effectively with Lab staff and other stakeholders to appropriately resolve questions and issues with minimal guidance.
  • A sound working knowledge of relevant safety rules/regulations and accident-prevention practices.
  • Sound interpersonal skills, including good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with diverse audiences of internal and external personnel and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively to establish and maintain good working relationships with relevant internal and external stakeholders.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Sound computer skills with the ability to use typical business software, proprietary software, and applications to complete assigned tasks.
  • Sound math skills necessary to perform accurate calculations.
   
Minimum Qualifications
 
 
Possession of a bachelor's degree in chemistry and three (3) years of experience in a responsible position in a certified laboratory, preferably including one (1) year in a supervisory position; OR, any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
   
Additional Information
 
 
This position reports to DPU’s Water Reclamation Facility located at 9101 WRVA Road in Varina.
A criminal history record check and fingerprinting is conducted on all persons conditionally offered employment, including a conditional offer of initial employment, or a conditional offer to promote, demote, or laterally transfer an employee.
   
   
How To Apply
 
 
You apply for positions with Henrico County general government through our on-line applicant system, which is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week with an Internet connection.  Please access our job site portal through www.henricojobs.com or register (new applicants) or login (returning applicants) to this site from the home page.
Closing date:  This position closes Monday, January 22, 2024.
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