Job Title Section Head - Microbiology Agency Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Department Canyon - Molecular Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location Canyon, Texas Job Type Staff Job Description Job Description Summary The Section Head, under direction, supervises technicians and provides oversight to the assigned section of the lab. Responsibilities General Description: Is responsible for daily oversight of the laboratory operations in the Canyon Microbiology testing section, including budgetary matters, routine testing, test development, client communications, quality assurance, safety, and employee well-being. Is responsible for scientific accuracy, completeness, promptness, and generation of the associated laboratory results. Ensures workflow coordination as well as appropriate and timely personnel management. Performs routine testing in the section when and as needed. Serves as a subject matter expert in the scientific discipline as appropriate. Ensures timely and accurate implementation of new or modified SOPs. Provides workflow coordination and facilitate and ensure consistency between TVMDL locations. Develops and validates diagnostic assays, generate and maintain related verification/validation records, and create associated procedures. Implements new technologies and diagnostic capabilities. Evaluates, selects, and executes standard and advanced scientific techniques used in a Microbiology laboratory. Teaches/trains/mentors personnel as needed. Participates as a productive team member in support of TVMDL objectives wherever feasible. Performs additional related duties as required or assigned by direct supervisor and agency leadership. Performs routine and non-routine tasks of advanced complexity, regularly exercising independent decision making; the ability to troubleshoot routine and complex problems with and/or without supervision; makes recommendations to supervisors; and works with minimal or no supervision. Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging: Is responsible for timely and accurate sample processing and preparation by section staff. Ensures samples are properly accessioned, entering case data into TVMDL’s laboratory information management system (LIMS), and ensuring samples are fit for purpose of test. Files and/or catalogs samples, specimens or other diagnostic material for archival and validation purposes. Testing: Provides scientific oversight for daily diagnostic testing in the section. Serves as the subject matter expert on a discipline(s), technique(s) or diagnostic methodology(ies). Performs or interprets complex assays or techniques for routine and non-routine testing. Works closely with Diagnostic Services/Veterinary Services, fellow Section Heads, Assistant Section Heads, and Veterinary Pathologists in the coordination and testing of multi-assigned cases. Serves as a section point of contact/subject matter resource for colleagues in other TVMDL sections or locations. Implements steps for resolution of errors or process improvements. Data Entry, Interpretation, Results: Reads and records observations, results, and measurements into TVMDL's approved worksheets, check-lists, and into the LIMS. These records are maintained in a manner so other informed laboratory personnel can always determine the status of a case. Coordinates progress of high consequence cases. Provides analysis and review of unexpected results or results of significance. Provides diagnostic interpretation to clients based on test results and clinical histories. Serves as case coordinator or section point of contact for multiply assigned cases when appropriate. Reviews results from other sections, clarify conflicting results and provide interpretation as necessary. Reviews and releases results to clients in a manner consistent with TVMDL's published turnaround times. Is responsible for the creation and revision of tests in LIMS. Maintains precise and accurate records of tested cases. Client Communication: Provides excellent customer service to laboratory clients. Communicates test results with clients and answer complex questions within competence or triage complex calls from clients to veterinary diagnosticians and appropriate professional staff. Consults with TVMDL colleagues to provide a complete, holistic approach to case management for all clients when appropriate. Participates in meetings with industry representatives to discuss and design research efforts or identify new assays to benefit TVMDL and its clients. Solicits information to better assess the feasibility and need for potential testing. May offer recommendations on sample selection, test selection, collection, shipment, etc. Coordinates test agreements as appropriate. Mitigate client complaints as appropriate. Quality Assurance & Safety: Adheres and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures in the laboratory. Leads by example regarding quality assurance and safety activities. Is responsible for safe handling of hazardous chemicals. Actively participates in quality assurance and safety programs. Identifies issues of noncompliance and nonconformance. Serves as owner for all section quality assurance documents. Is responsible for aligning processes, when relevant, across agency locations. Is responsible for ensuring solutions to quality assurance and safety issues, including addressing corrective actions, preventative actions, and audit findings. Serves as the laboratory section’s representative to Quality Assurance and/or Environmental Health & Safety Committees. Write or Edit SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation: Serves as document manager for SOPs, procedures, forms, workflows and other quality assurance documents for both local (Canyon) and system level documents in Microbiology disciplines; ensures timely and accurate review; is responsible for the scientific accuracy and completeness of all quality assurance documents for the section. Communicates with other TVMDL locations and ensure consistency in SOPs, procedures, and tests methods. Writes, reviews and/or edits quality assurance documents for section assays and procedures, ensuring proper formatting, content and compliance with quality assurance requirements. Is responsible for the identification, resolution and implementation of process improvement protocols. Identifies need to edit/update SOPs, procedures, forms and other documents related to the work in the section. Prepares reports for special assignments. Research, Reference Materials, Development: Engages in strategic review of new business opportunities which may include literature and market analysis. In collaboration with clients, TVMDL leadership and fellow Section Heads, develops partnership for new development and business opportunities. Evaluates experimental and technical approaches for development or improvement of assays to expand the section's and agency’s testing portfolio. May represent the section on the Test and Research Advisory Council. Attends Research and Development meetings. Under the direction of the AAD responsible for Research, leads and/or implements new assay development and validation, including test development, instrument configuration, and documentation of assay protocols, and modifications to existing processes. May apply for external grant funding. Performs data collection and data analysis, as well as draft manuscripts for publication. Writes journal articles and presents scientific sessions documenting research discoveries. Periodically reviews current scientific literature and/or attend scientific and professional meetings to maintain awareness of developments in Microbiology and/or promote efficient use of Microbiology services by practitioners and producers. Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment: Is responsible for the fiscal management of section expenses. Works closely with Finance staff and Section Staff to adhere to procurement and purchasing procedures. Approves purchases of supplies for the section. Ensures timely maintenance and repair of equipment, recommend maintenance agreements and vendors for long term viability of equipment. Administrative Roles: In the absence of primary responsible staff, may serve as liaison with regulatory agencies at the local, state and federal levels when appropriate. May interact with industry groups in the pursuit of improved relationships and collaboration. Testifies in legal and administrative proceedings on behalf of the agency, as requested. Interprets industry policies as well as state, national and international law as applicable. In collaboration with the Assistant Agency Director for Finance, establishes and manages the section budget. Monitors the section caseload, noting changes in workload. Proactively explores methods to increase revenue and decrease expenses when appropriate. Is responsible for proactively developing and implementing section policies and procedures. Leads strategic planning efforts for the section. Liaises with agency management on all projects, providing timely and relevant updates on section progress, challenges, opportunities and needs. Represents the section and/or agency on internal or external task forces, committees and work groups as designated by agency management. Assists or leads the monitoring and record keeping for legal cases and "hold" cases. Training and Mentorship: Is responsible for ensuring appropriate, adequate, timely and routine training amongst section staff, to include scientific, technical, managerial and leadership competencies. Is responsible for ensuring proficiency testing of all employees within the Microbiology Section in Canyon. Creates and administers testing and training in the quality management software program. Is responsible for ensuring all staff are adequately trained in use of the quality assurance program and LIMS software. Is responsible for maintenance of training records for direct reports. Identifies further training needs and ensures training is completed in a timely manner. Provides backup to section staff in the event of absences. Successfully completes proficiency tests for assigned assays. Supervisory, Evaluation, Employee Support: Is responsible for staff recruitment, hiring, evaluation, counseling, development and termination for Student Assistants, Technicians, Lab Supervisors and Assistant Section Heads. Recommends promotions, re-classifications, and salary actions for direct reports. Develops justification and maintain documentation for all personnel actions. Provides proactive, collaborative, and effective direct oversight and leadership to direct reports. Ensures employee actions are in compliance with Texas A&M System and TVMDL rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Creates an ethical, non-discriminatory, positive, and safe work environment. Proactively identifies and addresses personnel issues, manage conflict, and respond to grievances. Investigates complaints or performance concerns. Identifies staff development and training needs and ensure training is obtained. Ensures new staff receives necessary orientation training. Monitors and documents safety and quality assurance training as needed. Maintains training records for employees. Communicates regular updates and share agency-wide strategic information with all staff reporting through chain of command. Serves as an advocate for employee issues with colleagues and agency management. Is responsible for assisting employees in preparation for opportunities for promotion. Determines appropriate and equitable distribution of work assignments to meet advertised turnaround times, quality assurance, safety and overall TVMDL objectives. Ensures employees provide high quality, consistent and positive customer service to laboratory clients and colleagues. Reviews and approves timesheets, leave requests and other personnel requests. Sets and approves staffing schedules to ensure adequate laboratory staff. Supervising other Managers: Directly manages and coordinates the efforts of the Assistant Section Head (if applicable) and/or Lab Supervisors. Ensures effective and appropriate management and leadership by subordinate supervisors. Provides coaching, training, and mentorship to support professional development for subordinate supervisors and the supervisor's employees. Is responsible for assisting supervisors in preparation for opportunities for promotion. Teamwork & Cooperation: Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards and communication. May participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8 AM, after 5 PM, on weekends or on holidays. Participates in the TVMDL Management Team monthly meetings. Disseminates relevant information from Quality Assurance, Safety, and Management Team meetings, as appropriate, to section staff and colleagues. Collaborates with colleagues in other sections, TVMDL locations and other diagnostic laboratories across the country in development and pursuit of scientific advancement. Participates in industry recognized meetings and affiliations to gain knowledge within the relevant scientific disciplines and industries. Other: Performs work with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Performs work in such a way as to not expose others or myself to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods. Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows as appropriate. Assists/hosts/leads programs for 4-H students, career fairs, student tours and other lab guests. Serves as an instructor for 4th year veterinary students in Diagnostics rotation and/or Food Animal track rotations, collaborating with TVMDL veterinarians to educate students in best practices for formulating differential diagnoses, test selection, sample submission, and results interpretation. Performs other job-related duties as required. Qualifications Required Education and Experience: + Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Master’s/Ph.D. in related field or equivalent combination of education and experience. + Five years of related experience. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: + Advanced knowledge of microbiology methods. + Ability to perform assigned assays with no technical supervision and considerable independent decision making. + Excellent verbal and written communication skills. + Strong managerial and leadership skills. + Ensures attention to detail and ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others. Required Licenses/Certifications: + For DVM holders - Veterinarian license in Texas or eligibility for Special License in Texas. Preferred Education and Experience: + Ph.D. in Veterinary Microbiology or related field. + Five or more years of scientific research, clinical, experimental, or diagnostic work. + Six or more years of experience with routine Microbiology testing procedures. Experience with quality control/assurance. Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: + Knowledge of animal pathogens, pathogens’ biology and ecology, and zoonotic diseases. + Thorough knowledge of concepts, practices, and standard laboratory procedures, including safety procedures. + Proficient in operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment. + Extensive knowledge in cattle management programs, beef and dairy production systems, and main disease complexes affecting them. + Proficient in sequencing and next-generation sequencing, and bioinformatics. + Demonstrated success in assuming increasing responsibility and independent decision making. + Experience leading teams to solve complex tasks. + Implement steps for resolution of errors or process improvements. Special Instructions A cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three professional references  (to include at least one previous supervisor)  are required to successfully apply for this position. You may upload all three on the application under CV/Resume, pre-populate the online application using a LinkedIn profile, or attach the documents. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. Upon invitation to interview, candidates will be asked for 2-3 professional recommendations (to include at least one previous supervisor) . Closed-toed shoes and long pants are required attire for the Laboratory environment.   All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.