Section Head - Analytical Chemistry

Job Description Summary

This position serves as Section Head of the Analytical Chemistry Section, a fast paced, high-volume laboratory that conducts over 200 diagnostic tests and panels daily on animal samples submitted by veterinarians, animal owners, and agricultural stakeholders. The Analytical Chemistry Section provides toxicology services as well as drug testing for livestock competitions, pre-purchase examinations, therapeutic monitoring, etc. Professionals within the section utilize various testing methodologies including, but not limited to, classic microscopy, GC/MS, ICP/MS, and LC/MS.

The Analytical Chemistry Section Head is responsible for daily oversight of the laboratory operations, including budgetary matters, routine testing, test development, client communications, quality assurance, safety, and employee well‑being. Responsible for scientific accuracy, completeness, promptness, and generation of the associated laboratory results. Ensures workflow coordination as well as appropriate and timely personnel management. The Section Head implements new technologies and diagnostic capabilities;

evaluates, selects, and executes standard and advanced scientific techniques used in an analytical chemistry laboratory; teaches, trains, and mentors personnel as needed; and participates as a productive team member in support of TVMDL objectives.

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. Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests/client instruction(s).

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). Oversees the performance and interpretation of complex assays or techniques for routine and non‑routine testing. Works closely with Lead Scientists, Veterinary Services, fellow Section Heads, and Pathologists in the coordination of cases. Serves as a section point of contact and subject‑matter resource for colleagues in other TVMDL sections or locations.

May provide backup to section staff in the event of absences. Successfully completes proficiency tests for any 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.

Ensures daily finalization of cases. Reviews and releases results to clients in a manner consistent with TVMDL's published turnaround times. Maintains precise and accurate records.

Contact clients to clarify basic test requests, verify sources/locations for specimens, and provide expertise for resolution of problematic sample submissions. Provides excellent customer service to laboratory clients. Communicates test results with clients and answers complex questions within competence, or triages 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 identifies new assays to benefit TVMDL and its clients.

Solicits information to better assess the feasibility and need for potential testing. Offers recommendations on sample selection, test selection, collection, shipment, etc. Coordinates test agreements as appropriate. Mitigates client complaints as appropriate. May be called upon to serve as subject‑matter expert to support clients in legal depositions…