Laboratory Team Leader

Summary

TITLE: Team Lead/Advanced Senior Analyst

DEPARTMENT: Microbiology

LOCATION: Ottawa Microbiology Laboratory

Summary:

• Results orientated to produce high quality defensible analytical data, safely and on time by following applicable Standard Operating Procedures specific to Microbiology testing.
• Performs advanced microbiological sample preparation and sample analyses, including culture techniques, identification and enumeration procedures.
• Manages the priority organization and flow of samples and/or materials to optimize laboratory efficiency and meet client holding time requirements.
• Gains full knowledge with respect to performing microbiological analytical procedures and related quality control techniques by intense training.
• Proactive in resolving analytical and microbiological process problems.
• Identifies and resolves analytical problems and suggests improvements in processes, staff, and equipment resources.
• Willing to learn and continuously update skills and expertise through training.
• Inspires, motivates and participates in building a strong team environment.
• Takes initiative and is proactive in mentoring junior staff to effect process changes and develop technical competencies.
• Independently identify and isolate problems.
• Support and enforce strict adherence to corporate Quality and Health & Safety policies.
• Leads, develops and participates in building a strong team of analytical professionals.
• Acts as Lead Hand when Supervisor is absent or when instructed by the Supervisor.

Duties

• Adheres to Bureau Veritas Code of Ethics Policy.
• Supports and complies with all Bureau Veritas policies, Quality System and Health & Safety program.
• Performs complex sample preparation and analyses.
• Provides advanced lab support.
• Recording of results in logbooks and on FCDs. Data entry into LIMS may also be required.
• Assists with method verification and/or data validation.
• Follows Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Work Instructions (WIs) when conducting any laboratory work or procedure.
• Ensures a high level of accuracy in sample preparation and microbiological analysis.
• Employs proper laboratory techniques to minimize risk of mislabelling, sample mix- up and cross contamination between samples and other materials.
• Prioritizes daily workload based on sample and client requirement for self and junior staff.
• Provides Supervisor/Manager with updates on workstation status including advance notification of any delays.
• Understands microbiological analysis procedures and problem solves issues independently.
• Identifies any non-routine samples and seeks guidance on procedures for handling.
• Identifies and communicates non-conformances to Supervisor/Manager.
• Maintains training records and relevant qualifications.
• Meets quality and TAT specifications required by the client and ensure samples are analyzed within holding time requirements.
• Participates in developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Work instructions (WIs).
• Provides input to corrective action procedures or may be assigned to perform the corrective action.
• Keeps work area clean, neat and organized.
• Participates in Department and Health & Safety meetings.
• Prepares Departmental meetings as directed.
• Participates, when requested in internal and external audits.
• Performs daily audits on the records, logbook, equipment to ensure the procedure is followed as per plan.
• Streamlining the work in consultation with Lab Supervisor/Manager.
• Provides training, technical expertise and mentoring to junior staff.
• Proactive in ensuring that consumable supplies are available in the lab.
• Ensures instruments and equipment are being maintained appropriately and assesses new instruments.
• Acts as a positive change agent in supporting Bureau Veritas’s new initiatives (operational and cultural).
• Recommends solutions (technical/staffing), which will make the lab more effective and competitive.
• Identifies problems and recommends solutions (i.e. technical, procedural, quality, safety & human) to Management.
• Assumes a leading role in the planning and implementation of any procedural or equipment validation.
• Coordinates laboratory projects.
• Provides feedback to Supervisor/Manager on staff performance and other matters.
• Provides feedback during budgeting process as required.
• All other responsibilities as assigned.

Skills

• Accurately follows Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Work Instructions (WIs).
• Assesses problems and recommends solutions.
• Advanced knowledge of microbiological techniques including aseptic handling, culture preparation, sterilization, and identification methods.
• Strong mentoring and coaching abilities with demonstrated capacity to develop junior staff.
• Excellent computer skills.
• Thorough understanding of Bureau Veritas's Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

Attributes

• Positive outlook with an ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Good time-management, communication and priority setting skills.
• Works both independently and as part of a team.
• Detail orientated and record keeping skills.
• Learn quickly.
• Adapts to a changing environment.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to deal with different situations and personalities.
• Works under pressure to meet changing deadlines and shifting priorities.
• Good team building, training, and coaching skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Experience:

• Demonstrated success in the role of Senior Analyst or equivalent in a laboratory setting.
• 3 to 5 years of experience in water or environmental microbiology testing or related analytical field.
• Proven experience mentoring and training junior laboratory staff.

Education:

• Post secondary school education (B.Sc. or MSc. Preferred in Microbiology, Biology, or related field) and equivalent experience.

Additional Information