Lab Supervisor

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position Overview:

The primary function of the Laboratory Supervisor is to lead the daily operations of the laboratory team, oversee compliance, manage customer interactions, and ensure the effective, compliant acceptance of non-hazardous liquid waste streams at our plant. As the gatekeeper for the plant, the Laboratory Manager performs critical analysis and oversight, guiding the intake process by using fingerprint testing and instrumentation to evaluate waste compatibility under regulatory standards and facility permit guidelines.

Essential Functions:

• Laboratory Operations & Analysis


• Operate the lab safely in full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.


• Apply and maintain knowledge of all applicable EPA-approved testing methods.


• Perform or oversee wet bench chemistry for waste stream analysis


• Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation.


• Ensure all measurement probes and lab equipment are calibrated and functioning properly.


• Compliance & Quality Control


• Uphold all elements of the Waste Acceptance Plan and internal SOPs. Develop/Create as needed.


• Conduct chemical treatment testing and provide directions to plant operators before, during, and after each treatment batch.


• Monitor compliance standards and collaborate directly with regulatory agencies and labs to ensure best practices.


• Implement and maintain continuous improvement practices to stay ahead of industry and regulatory standards.


• Identify and address key treatment process defects, particularly in DAF, Filter Press, and Solidification systems.


• Recommend and apply in-process treatment improvements to maintain peak compliance performance.


• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Reporting


• Provide final approval on customer waste profiles, coordinating with Sales.


• Communicate directly with brokers/customers regarding waste stream approvals, upcharges, and COD-related billing.


• Participate in customer site visits with Sales or Division Manager to evaluate on-site waste.


• Maintain direct communication with the Plant Manager, providing lab performance updates and compliance reporting.


• Approaches challenges with optimism and a solutions-oriented mindset, promoting a positive work environment.


• Inventory, Scheduling & Documentation


• Order all lab supplies and coordinate plant PPE and safety needs.


• Schedule lab shifts to ensure appropriate coverage across all shifts.


• Assist lab team in entering accurate work orders into the waste tracking system.


• Maintain documentation, reports, and internal communications in an organized and compliant manner.


• Leadership & Strategic Development


• Lead, mentor, and train laboratory staff.


• Identify and integrate best practices into standard lab and plant operating procedures.


• Foster a culture of compliance, professionalism, and continuous development across the lab team.


• Lead operations team members as needed on chemical introductions to process, and the why.


• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to safety.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of laboratory experience


• Management/supervisory experience preferred


• BS in Biology, Chemistry, or related discipline


• Training in Waste Stream or Wastewater Management preferred

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong leadership and team development abilities


• Familiarity with regulatory and compliance reporting


• High attention to detail in laboratory safety and testing standards


• Skilling in Microsoft Office


• Clear, professional communication with regulatory bodies, internal teams, and external customers

Working Environment:

·        Indoor/outdoor plant environment; exposure to hot, cold, or odorous conditions

·        Ability to lift light loads, climb, and sit or stand for extended periods.

·        General laboratory conditions

This job description in no way states of implies these are the only duties to be performed by the employee incumbent in the position. Employees will be required to follow any other legal or ethical job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. 

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise. Liquid Environmental Solutions has an “at will” relationship with team members.