Assists the Micro Lab Manager with oversight of internal company Micro Lab and manages the Micro Lab Supervisors. Also, supports the processing facilities by ensuring food safety programs and regulatory requirements are being met by providing appropriate laboratory test results. Other areas of responsibility are ensuring ISO compliance, coordinating proficiency training and vendor onboarding, monthly billing, verification of supervisor and lab technician duties, and managing inventory and research projects.

Oversees Laboratory Testing. Responsible for managing supervisors and overall laboratory operations. Provides direction to micro laboratory supervisors and technicians. Helps to identify cost saving opportunities. Ensures lab personnel are trained to safely handle all equipment and chemicals utilized in the lab.

Communicates Laboratory Results. Manages the process of test result communication, research projects, etc. to the appropriate personnel within the company.

Manages people and resources to meet business goals. Manages people and resources to meet regulatory requirements and expectations. Ensures effective scheduling and spending to meet quality requirements and ensure product meets expectations.

Manages employees. Directs and supervises employees (Micro Lab Supervisors and Technicians)’ work activities and monitors work performance. Collaborates with Human Resources to screen, interview and hire candidates. Administers disciplinary actions and recommends performance improvement actions in collaboration with the HR Manager. Monitors work performance and recommends compensation decisions based on guidelines. Follows Simmons values to develop and maintain a favorable working relationship with all employees. Promotes a cooperative and harmonious environment to facilitate positive employee morale, productivity, and continued improvement.

Participates as a member of the Team. Oversees and participates in the ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues, e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforce actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization.

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons’ established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies, continuous improvement); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position’s role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of the person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position.

Physical Activities: Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print. Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing environment and surrounding property. May travel via car or plane to various work locations. Must be able to stoop, bend, and climb ladders to perform inspections. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hairnets, lab coats, slip resistant shoes, and any other protective equipment as needed or required.

Travel: Minimum local travel to other work sites.

Technical Experience: 3 years of laboratory experience.

Industry Experience: Preference for poultry or food processing lab.

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, Chemistry or related degree or 3 years related work experience.

Preferred Education: N/A

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