Testing research unit supervisor

Full job description

Job Location: This position will be located at 920 Wildwood Dr., Jefferson City, Missouri 65109.

The Testing and Research Unit (TRU) Supervisor is a professional level position that works in a newly approved Missouri industry regulating the activities of cannabis licensees. The cannabis industry will be in the building and implementation phase of growth for many years to come. The successful candidate will be a part of a dynamic, fast-paced environment and will assist the Division with developing and improving the regulatory program to ensure Missourians have safe access to cannabis. The TRU oversees the compliance of certified testing licensees and the testing of cannabis product by the testing licensees to ensure cannabis is safe for use by patients and consumers.

• Develop, communicate, and implement guidance documents and procedures from the Division to ensure licensees are in compliance with Article XIV and 19 CSR 100-1, specific to testing and research of cannabis products. Licensees include certified testing and research licensees.
• Responsible for planning, developing priorities, reporting outcomes and developing and implementing processes and procedures for the Unit.
• Responsible for the work and outcomes of the Unit.
• Develop and carryout training and a training program for Unit staff ensuring staff have the resources needed to complete their job.
• Manage and oversee compliance officers and a research scientist within the Unit; ensure staff are trained and are adhering to established protocols consistently throughout the Unit; evaluate staff performance and provide mentoring and coaching for a successful team.
• Oversee the compliance of testing and research licensees pursuant to Article XIV and 19 CSR 100-1.
• Coordinate activities and assist in developing work plans with the state reference lab.
• Knowledgeable of and actively research new methods for testing cannabis and provide leadership with recommendations for rule changes or new rules, in addition to technical standards and internal policies and procedures; be knowledge of and actively review licensee testing methodologies and procedures for compliance.
• Coordinate with ISO 17025 accrediting bodies regarding accreditation standards and proficiency testing providers regarding proficiency testing programs and applicable rules, regulations, and law.
• Oversee all inspection activity for Unit’s cannabis licensees including planning, process development, and follow-up.
• Oversee the review of the statewide track and trace system data for compliance with testing, inventory, etc.
• Recommend and follow-up on any enforcement type actions taken with the licensee.
• Collaborate with other units and bureaus within DCR and ensures that the Unit as a whole collaborates as needed.
• Exercise considerable initiative and judgment in planning and carrying out assignments; receive general administrative direction and is able to carry out the full scope of responsibilities of the Unit with minimal oversight.
• Travel will be required with possible overnight stays and overtime.
• Complete related or similar duties as required or assigned.

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a scientific field of study, preferred, such as Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Laboratory Technology, or closely related field. (Substitutions may be allowed).
• Five (5) or more years of experience with laboratory operations, preferred. This includes knowledge of laboratory practices, methodologies, and analytical instruments and equipment such as HPLC, LC-MS, GC-MS, and ICP/MS.
• Experience with ISO/EC 17025 2017, or similar accreditation processes, preferred.
• A high level of initiative and problem solving skills in areas of responsibility.
• A proven track record of successfully managing and supervising a highly technical team.
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment with many competing priorities.
• Ability to take general guidance and direction and complete projects and tasks with minimal oversight.
• Ability to develop effective solutions and strategies.
• Ability to mine data systems and use the data for the purposes of compliance and investigative needs.
• Ability to organize and manage time efficiently.
• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
• Ability to adapt to constant program development, change and improvement.
• Ability to apply critical thinking skills and find solutions to new situations on a regular basis.
• Ability to use the Microsoft Office Suite proficiently and quickly learn specialized systems.
• Attention to detail.

Lack of post-secondary education will not be used as the sole basis denying consideration to any applicant.

The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found here.

Laura Gladura, or