Group Leader - Toxicology Cell Culture

About McKinney Specialty Labs

McKinney Specialty Labs is an innovative scientific organization that draws upon decades of extensive expertise in testing nicotine and other aerosolized products. We employ subject matter experts with extensive scientific knowledge, utilize robust and validated analytical methods, and offer testing flexibility to meet the diverse needs of our clients.

Our mission is to deliver best-in-class product testing and global regulatory science solutions to our clients through our experience, people and technology. We accomplish this by offering our clients the highest quality testing services in a state-of- the-art facility, all conducted according to our Values: Excellence, Collaboration, Integrity, Innovation, and Respect.

We are a new and growing company located in Richmond, Virginia. We offer competitive pay and a comprehensive benefit package, including medical, dental, vision and 401 (k).

To learn more, please visit our company website: https://mckinneysl.com/

Position Overview:

The Group Leader is responsible for leading and managing all activities of the Toxicology Cell Culture Team and supporting the Toxicology Department. This role ensures high-quality, timely, and compliant analytical testing of nicotine and other nicotine products. The Group Leader will work on technical/scientific project activities to execute strategies and technical solutions that meet client needs and expectations. The Group Leader will report to the Director of Toxicology.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Allocate resources across teams to balance workload and maximize efficiency
• Drive engagement and create a climate where staff are motivated to do their best
• Ensure consistent high-quality data output and analytical integrity
• Optimize workflows, throughput, and equipment utilization to meet productivity and turnaround time goals
• Accurate and timely communication with internal clients
• Creates and maintains project schedules for all cell culture methods
• Support development of new method validations
• Instrument calibration and maintenance as needed
• Collaborate with Client Relationship Managers and technical leads from other cross functional areas to ensure clear expectations and successful deliverables
• Ensure laboratory activities are in compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., FDA, ISO, GLP)
• Collaborate with QA to manage deviations, CAPAs, and audits
• Ensure all documentation, SOPs, and protocols are current and followed
• Conduct performance evaluations, career development planning, and staffing decisions
• Foster a culture of safety, teamwork, and scientific excellence
• Supervises Technicians and Scientists at multiple levels
• Maintain adequate consumables and parts for analyses
• Initiate and address non-conformance issues
• Comply with McKinney Specialty Labs’ Quality Assurance Program and other policies
• Ensure staff comply with McKinney Specialty Labs’ Health and Safety Plan

Necessary Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, individuals must be able to perform each duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the duties and responsibilities.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biology, or related field
• 3+ years of progressive experience in a testing lab
• Technical expertise in cell culture.
• Understand the underlying principles that underpin the assays being performed
• Demonstrate the ability to organize, communicate, and facilitate priorities to staff in an effective manner
• Must be able manage an effective workflow in their department (this includes managing project hours, machine time and logistics for numerous assays)

Preferred Skills:

• Effective communication skills
• Experience with conflict resolution
• Ability to conduct problem diagnosis and assign corrective action
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and maintain composure during stressful times
• Ability to drive functional, technical and operational excellence
• Ability to inspire and foster innovation, collaboration, transparency and team effectiveness
• The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees so classified.

Application Process:

McKinney Specialty Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. McKinney Specialty Labs does not discriminate in hiring or employment practices based on race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, national origin, non-job-related disability, or status as a veteran.

If you are looking to make an impact in a dynamic and visionary company, we invite you to apply for this opportunity at McKinney Specialty Labs.