Supervisor – Microbiology Laboratory

Job Description

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the position of Supervisor - Microbiology Laboratory at the National Centre of Testing Excellence, Dominica Bureau of Standards.

The Laboratory Supervisor - Microbiology is responsible for the supervision of laboratory operations in the Food and Environmental Microbiology Laboratories, direct contact with the laboratory client base, and the management of all laboratory operations related to the generation and communication of microbiological and environmental testing results. The Laboratory Supervisor will be required to work closely with the Director of Laboratory Services, Technical Manager of Laboratory Services, and the Laboratory Supervisor - Chemistry as well as delegate responsibility for laboratory operations to the Laboratory Supervisor - Chemistry when absent from the Food and Environmental Laboratories.

Responsibility

• Supervise laboratory operations to maintain quality and efficiency;
• Oversee training of new and current Laboratory Personnel in Laboratory Procedures and Protocols;
• Provide guidance in the distribution of workload;
• Ensure that aseptic/microbiological and sound chemical techniques are applied to the daily workload;
• Review and approve laboratory expenditures, including outside laboratory testing, shipping, and supply orders;
• Ensure that all required equipment is in place and properly functioning;
• Ensure that all quality control procedures and documentation are in compliance and up to date with ISO 17025 guidelines;
• Supervise non-routine projects per client request and as assigned;
• Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends;
• Any other duties that may be assigned by Management;

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Microbiology, Food Science or a related field. A Masters' Degree would be an advantage
• Minimum of five (5) years' experience in a Microbiological Food or Environmental Testing Laboratory
• Minimum of two (2) years' experience supervising laboratory personnel
• A combination of analytical, communication and reasoning skills;
• Be able to read and write policies regarding safety and quality assurance procedures for use at the NCTE;
• Read and analyze reports from laboratory equipment to ensure everything is operating in an efficient manner;
• Strong observational, analytical and record-keeping skills;
• Skill in the use of computer spreadsheets and/or database applications in the compilation of data;
• Flexibility with the job requirements and locations;
• A valid driver's license;

Benefits and Others

The position will be on a contractual basis for two (2) years in the first instance. The successful applicant will receive a salary based on qualifications and experience.

Working Conditions:

• Be physically capable
• Office and field/outdoor conditions apply.
• Exposure to hazardous and unpleasant conditions is possible in the field.
• Exposure to variable temperatures and weather conditions.
• Exposure to extended periods of walking and standing.
• May be called to work in emergency situations.

Address For Applications

Applications should be sent under CONFIDENTIAL cover to:

The Chairman
National Standards Council
Dominica Bureau of Standards
National Centre of Testing Excellence, Stock Farm
P. O. Box 1015, Roseau
Dominica, W. I.

The names and contact details of three (3) referees and evidence of formal qualifications should be included in the Letter of Application.

The closing date for the receipt of applications is Friday, March 24, 2023.