Section Head - Analytical Chemistry

Is responsible for timely and accurate sample processing and preparation by section staff. Ensures samples are properly accounted for, case data is entered into TVMDL’s laboratory information management system (LIMS), and samples are fit for purpose of test. Files and/or catalogs samples, specimens, or other diagnostic material for archival and validation purposes.

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 Veterinary Services, fellow Section Heads, and Pathologists in the coordination and testing of multi-assigned cases. Serves as a section point of contact and subject matter resource for colleagues in other TVMDL sections or locations. Provides backup to section staff in the event of absences. Successfully completes proficiency tests for assigned assays.

Reads and records observations, results, and measurements into TVMDL's approved worksheets, checklists, and LIMS. Maintains records in a manner so that other personnel can 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 multi-assigned cases. Reviews results from other sections, clarifies conflicting results and provides interpretation as necessary. Reviews and releases results to clients in a manner consistent with TVMDL's published turnaround times. Maintains precise and accurate records.

Provides excellent customer service to laboratory clients. Communicates test results with clients and answer complex questions within competence, or triage complex calls to the appropriate professional staff. Consults with TVMDL colleagues to provide a complete, holistic approach to case management.

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. Mitigates client complaints as appropriate.

Adheres and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures. Leads by example regarding quality assurance and safety. Is responsible for timely and accurate inventory and 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 ensuring solutions to quality assurance and safety issues, including addressing corrective actions, preventative actions, and audit findings. Implements steps for resolution of errors or process improvements. Serves as the laboratory section’s representative to Quality Assurance and/or Environmental Health & Safety Committees.

Serves as document manager for SOPs, procedures, forms, workflows, and other quality assurance documents for the section. Is responsible for the scientific accuracy and completeness of all quality assurance documents for the section. 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 timely identification, resolution, and implementation of process improvement protocols. Identifies the need to edit or update SOPs, procedures, forms, and other documents related to the work in the section. Prepares reports for special assignments.

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 testing portfolio.

May represent the section on the Test and Research Advisory Council. Leads and/or implements new assay development and validation, including test development, instrument configuration, documentation of protocols, and modifications to existing processes. May apply for external grant funding.

Performs data collection and data analysis, as well as drafts 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 toxicology, pharmacology, analytical chemistry, animal competitions, and to promote efficient use of TVMDL services by practitioners and producers.

Is responsible for the fiscal management of section expenses. Works closely with Finance 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.

Liaises with regulatory agencies at the local, state, and federal levels. Interacts 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.

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 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.

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 section. Is responsible for maintaining training records for direct reports.

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. Identifies further training needs and ensure training is completed in a timely manner.

Is responsible for staff recruitment, hiring, evaluation, counseling, development, and termination for technicians, chemists, and other section staff. Recommends promotions, reclassifications, and salary actions as appropriate. Develops justification and maintains documentation for all personnel actions. Provides proactive, collaborative, and effective direct oversight and leadership to staff. 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 and implements solutions.

Identifies staff development and training needs and ensure training is obtained. Ensures new staff receive orientation training. Monitors and documents safety and quality assurance training as needed. Communicates regular updates and shares 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 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 time sheets, leave requests, and other personnel requests. Sets and approves staffing schedules to ensure adequate laboratory staff.

Directly manages and coordinates the efforts of the other managers in the section. 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 promotion.

Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards and communication. Participates in TVMDL Information, Problems, and Solutions (TIPS) monthly meetings and disseminate relevant information to section staff. 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.

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 Veterinary 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, and participating in trade shows as appropriate.

Assists/hosts/leads programs for youth programs, career fairs, student tours, and other lab guests. May serve 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 duties as required.

This position is eligible for a partially remote work arrangement for up to 16 hours per week. The incumbent may may choose to participate in flex scheduling including work prior to 8 AM or after 5 PM.

TVMDL is located on the campus of Texas A&M University (TAMU). Parking permits are available from TAMU at the expense of the employee.

TVMDL is considered an essential component of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) and remains operational for several “open holidays” in which overtime or compensatory time may be earned.

This position requires a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs.

All veterinarians employed at TVMDL are required to obtain either a full license or a special license from the

TVMDL employees are eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program administered by the US Department of Education.

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.

Advanced knowledge of section-specific discipline.

Knowledge of quality assurance and safety programs in a laboratory.

Ability to perform assigned assays with no technical supervision and considerable independent decision making.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong managerial skills.

Strong leadership ability.

Attention to detail.

Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

DVM and board certification or eligibility to sit for examination from the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology (ABVT); or PhD and board certification or eligibility to sit for examination from the American Board of Toxicology (ABT).

Seven or more years of professional experience in a veterinary toxicology or drug testing laboratory.

Prior professional experience as a manager in a diagnostic laboratory.

Experience leading teams to solve complex tasks.

Demonstrated success in assuming increasing responsibility.

Ability to implement steps for error resolution or process improvements.