Description
Job Summary
The Laboratory Superintendent is responsible for overseeing all laboratory operations for the water and wastewater utility, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to drinking water and wastewater quality standards. This position manages laboratory staff, directs analytical testing programs, maintains quality assurance systems, and supports operational decision-making through accurate and timely laboratory analysis. The Laboratory Superintendent plays a critical role in protecting public health, environmental compliance, and utility performance by ensuring laboratory data integrity, regulatory reporting accuracy, and operational efficiency.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Manage daily operations of the water and wastewater laboratory, including scheduling, workflow, and resource allocation.
Oversee analytical testing for drinking water, wastewater, biosolids, industrial pretreatment, and environmental monitoring programs.
Ensure all sampling, testing, and reporting activities comply with applicable regulations and approved methodologies.
Maintain laboratory accreditation and certifications as required by regulatory agencies.
Develop, implement, and update laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Ensure compliance with EPA, state environmental agency, OSHA, and utility standards.
Maintain laboratory quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) programs.
Review analytical results for accuracy, precision, and completeness before reporting.
Prepare and submit required regulatory reports and compliance documentation.
Coordinate audits, inspections, and proficiency testing programs.
Supervise, train, mentor, and evaluate laboratory personnel.
Promote a safe, collaborative, and high-performing work environment.
Develop staff schedules, assign work priorities, and monitor productivity.
Identify training needs and support continuing education and certification requirements.
Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and operation of laboratory instruments and equipment.
Coordinate equipment repairs, service contracts, and procurement of laboratory supplies.
Monitor inventory levels and maintain laboratory records and documentation systems.
Evaluate and recommend new technologies, instruments, and process improvements.
Collaborate with water treatment, wastewater treatment, engineering, and environmental compliance teams.
Provide technical guidance related to process control, treatment optimization, and troubleshooting.
Assist in emergency response activities involving water quality or environmental incidents.
Analyze trends and prepare technical reports and presentations for management.
Develop and manage laboratory budgets, including supplies, equipment, and staffing.
Assist in strategic planning and capital improvement recommendations for laboratory operations.
Ensure cost-effective use of laboratory resources.
Requirements
Skills, Abilities and Knowledge
Strong understanding of drinking water and wastewater treatment processes.
Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation including spectrophotometers, gas chromatographs, ICP, and microbiological testing equipment.
Knowledge of NELAC/TNI standards and laboratory accreditation processes.
Ability to interpret regulatory requirements and technical data.
Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and laboratory software systems.
State certification as a Water or Wastewater Laboratory Analyst.
Laboratory Analyst Certification
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Microbiology, or related scientific field.
Master’s degree in a related field preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible laboratory experience in water or wastewater analysis.
Minimum of 2 years of supervisory or management experience.
Knowledge of EPA-approved laboratory methods and environmental regulations.
Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
Experience managing an accredited environmental laboratory.
Experience in municipal utility operations.
Other Requirements
Valid driver’s license.
Water Treatment Operator License.
Wastewater Treatment Operator License.
OSHA Hazard Communication or Safety Training.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
Work is performed in laboratory, treatment plant, and field environments.
Exposure to chemicals, wastewater, biological hazards, and laboratory equipment.
May require occasional after-hours response during emergencies or compliance events.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and perform sampling activities in various weather conditions.
APPLY AT: https://ewsu.com/about-us/employment-opportunities/
*This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee.
