Lab Manager

Laboratory Manager

Energy Management Solutions – Agri Energy, located in Luverne, MN.

• Manage plant QA/QC program.
• Initiate and implement plant QA/QC program based on best practice in the ethanol industry.
• Monitor use and inventories of laboratory chemicals and supplies; initiate re-ordering when necessary.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment.
• Prepare reports, analyze data and make recommendations for improving operation or solving process related problems.
• Sample various points in the process and conduct QA/QC tests as required.
• Maintain safety, health and environmental policies and procedures.
• Ensure city, county, state, and federal regulations relating to the QA laboratory are met at all times.
• Direct, maintain, and enforce the safety program for the QA laboratory; review safety records to uphold standards of maximum safety for all laboratory technicians.
• Coordinate activities with other departments.
• Communicate directly with Operations Supervisor to ensure effective participation by process operators in the implementation of QA/QC policies and procedures.
• Communicate directly with Maintenance Supervisor to coordinate maintenance and repair work in the laboratory.
• Implement programs and procedures required to ensure laboratory and plant cleanliness.
• Assist with interviewing, hiring, and training laboratory employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; and addressing complaints and resolving problems.
• Supervise QA laboratory technicians.
• Ensure that technicians are adequately trained, equipped and motivated so that the QA/QC program can be accomplished in a safe, timely and cost‑effective manner.
• Communicate regularly with all technicians, both individually and as a group, to ensure consistent implementation of the program.
• Assist with hiring of laboratory personnel.
• Conduct employee performance reviews based on job descriptions to determine competency, knowledge and contribution of process operators.
• Maintain and update operating and training manuals for the QA laboratory; ensure all technicians are trained on the latest operating procedures.
• Monitor plant QA/QC parameters.
• Review the operation of the plant constantly to monitor production and quality, anticipate and solve problems in a timely manner, and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Initiate and carry out projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs.

• Bachelor’s degree from a four‑year college/university in a related scientific or technical field or related job experience.
• 5+ years’ experience in a QA laboratory in a dry‑mill ethanol plant or related industry.
• Experience with implementing effective QA/QC programs.
• In‑depth knowledge of mashing, fermentation and distillation as they relate to the ethanol production process.
• Experience with environmental testing and reporting.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of general office equipment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong basic math skills.
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with internal and external customers.
• Ability to maintain good relationships with internal and external customers, use tact and diplomacy, and possess a customer‑service focus.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, negotiation, dispute‑resolution, and obstacle‑overcoming skills.
• Manage multiple priorities with efficiency and accuracy.
• Ability to anticipate needs and accomplish necessary tasks.
• Strong motivational ability.
• Maintain adequate records on a daily, weekly and monthly basis of key QA/QC variables.

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

In person

Please email resume to rick.sa