Regional Laboratory Manager

Job Title Regional Laboratory Manager  Position Summary The Regional Laboratory Manager (adapt title) is responsible for overseeing laboratory operations supporting water and wastewater treatment facilities across their respective region.  This role ensures accurate, timely, and regulatory-compliant analytical testing to support treatment process control, permit compliance, and public health protection. The position provides technical leadership, staff supervision, quality assurance oversight, and coordination with operations, regulatory agencies, and external laboratories. The Regional (title if updated) Laboratory Manager will support the Environmental Compliance team in environmental permit reviews and related project support.    Key Responsibilities Laboratory Operations & Oversight Manage day-to-day laboratory operations for multiple water and wastewater treatment facilities within the region. Ensure analytical testing meets regulatory requirements for both process control and compliance sampling (e.g. drinking water, wastewater discharge permits, biosolids) Standardize laboratory procedures, methods, and documentation across all regional labs. Ensure proper sample collection, preservation, custody, analysis, and data reporting. Operational Management and Workflow Efficiency - Drive day-to-day operational excellence and ensure optimal workflow, turnaround times, and customer service for clients/operational teams. Manage and mentor local lab managers/supervisors within the region. Directly manage the Quality Management System and assist with the development and enforcement of policies and quality assurance procedures for all phases of testing (pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic) Step in to support or course-correct projects at risk for non-compliance. Performs other duties as assigned to support the overall objectives of the department and organization. Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance Maintain compliance with applicable regulations and standards (e.g., EPA, state primacy agencies, NELAC/TNI, ISO where applicable) Oversee Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) programs, including method validation, audits, corrective actions, and proficiency testing. Prepare for and support regulatory inspections, audits, and certification renewals. Review and approve laboratory reports and data submissions to regulatory agencies. Review and approve new or updated environmental permits for a project as necessary. Leadership & Staff Management Manage, mentor, and develop laboratory supervisors, technicians, and analysts. Create and set expectations, performance goals, and development plans for the lab team in the region aligned with national goals. Manage and coordinate staffing, scheduling, and training to ensure adequate laboratory coverage. Promote a culture of safety, data integrity, and continuous improvement. Promote teamwork and foster a positive work environment and ensure effective communication between technical and administrative laboratory staff. Conduct performance evaluations and support professional development. Technical & Operational Support Manage and provide technical expertise to operations staff on process control, troubleshooting, and optimization. Support treatment process changes through data analysis and trend evaluation. Lead and investigate non-compliant results, root causes, and corrective actions with the project in the region. Evaluate and implement new analytical methods, instrumentation, and technologies in the region. Budgeting & Resource Management Manage and develop regional laboratory budgets. Approve and oversee procurement, inventory, and maintenance of laboratory equipment and supplies for the region. Manage and evaluate the use of contract laboratories and manage vendor relationships as needed. Data Management & Reporting Ensure accurate data entry, validation, and record retention. Utilize LIMS and other data systems for tracking samples, trends, and compliance. Prepare technical reports, summaries, and presentations for management and stakeholders. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field (Master’s preferred) Minimum of 5–8 years of laboratory experience in water and/or wastewater analysis At least 3 years of supervisory or management experience 50 % Travel required.