Group Leader- Raw Materials

Shift: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Full‑time, onsite Raw Materials Group Leader located in Oakdale, MN.

Our mission: continuously move science forward; innovate and advance all aspects of our business to improve the health and safety of our communities and lives.

Compensation: $60,000 – $70,000 per year.

Responsible for the day‑to‑day management of the technical section, typically consisting of 4 to 10 technical staff.

Plan, coordinate, and direct operations to meet client timelines, ensure data quality, and deliver analytical reports and protocols on time.

Ensure individuals operate within the quality system and drive productivity.

• Supervise staff, including hiring, training, performance evaluation, compensation recommendations, and performance management.
• Ensure employees have the training, tools, information, and materials needed to perform responsibilities safely.
• Oversee broad operational areas: testing, scheduling, inventory, services, communication, and coordination of lab and field activities; provide technical and quality support to staff and clients.
• Assign training, lab and facility duties and monitor completion for timeliness and accuracy.
• Document client requirements clearly using appropriate formats such as deviations, project logs, and project requirements.
• Serve as primary liaison between Pace and the client; provide status updates and coordinate responses to feedback.
• Ensure accuracy of tests, databases, and reports through audits, queries, and operational reviews; resolve discrepancies.
• Assist with equipment and facility maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Participate in writing, reviewing, and approving SOPs, calibration procedures, validation protocols, maintenance procedures, and related documentation.
• Oversee and review testing processes, forms, databases, and related materials.
• Provide analysis and guidance to staff and leadership regarding policies, programs, and operational practices.
• Review operational data and trends, develop insights, and present recommendations to management.
• Support development of departmental or cross‑functional projects, including budgets, timelines, materials, and staffing.
• Ensure compliance with Pace and regulatory requirements; partner with Quality Assurance to enforce quality procedures.
• Contribute to team effectiveness by offering suggestions and actively participating in work teams.
• Promote a positive and collaborative work environment through professional and respectful interactions.

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, or a closely related field and five (5) years of laboratory, field, or testing experience, including experience with complex operations; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Two (2) years of team leadership experience strongly preferred.

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills
• Strong communication and technical writing skills
• Advanced principles, practices, and techniques in laboratory or testing environments
• Broad understanding of operational oversight, policies, and procedures
• Problem‑solving methods for complex technical issues
• Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and compliance requirements
• Proficiency with computer applications and systems
• Team collaboration principles
• Effective communication methods for staff and clients
• Business English, grammar, and punctuation

• Supervising, evaluating employees, and making recommendations
• Training staff on policies and procedures
• Performing advanced technical and professional lab/testing duties
• Managing and overseeing diverse operational functions
• Participating in and leading projects
• Working independently and collaboratively
• Interpreting and applying laws and regulations
• Preparing complex reports and correspondence
• Exercising independent judgment within guidelines
• Demonstrating tact and professionalism in interactions
• Delivering presentations to varied audiences
• Contributing to team goals and objectives
• Building and maintaining effective working relationships

Full‑time roles are eligible for a comprehensive benefits program, including…