Laboratory Supervisor - Wastewater Treatment

Job Overview

This position entails leading and managing Laboratory Analysts within wastewater treatment operations. The Laboratory Supervisor will organize, oversee, and review laboratory testing, including both internal and contracted analyses. Responsibilities also include supply procurement and maintaining equipment functionality.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, supervise, and evaluate laboratory personnel; handle recruitment, terminations, scheduling, training, counseling, appraisals, and salary recommendations.
• Coordinate laboratory activities, record testing data rigorously, ensure quality control, and liaise with external labs to arrange special sampling while communicating results to supervisory staff.
• Manage laboratory inventory and confirm proper equipment operation.
• Drive city vehicles as part of job duties.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by management.

Required Knowledge and Competencies

• Understanding of laboratory management principles and processes.
• Expertise in wastewater analysis methodologies.
• Awareness of relevant permits, regulations, and compliance standards.
• Familiarity with modern office practices and software.
• Proficient in English grammar, spelling, and communications.
• Principles of effective employee supervision.
• Basic mathematical skills.

Key Skills and Abilities

• Effective organization and time management abilities.
• Flexibility to multitask and efficiently switch between different types of duties.
• Capacity to analyze and interpret laboratory data accurately.
• Strong interpersonal skills to foster positive work relationships.
• Clear and professional verbal and written communication.
• Ability to follow directions and give instructions clearly to staff.
• Capability to perform physically demanding as well as routine tasks.
• Possession of a valid Texas Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record.
• Professional demeanor reflecting positively on the City of Laredo.
• Proficient communication in English both orally and in writing, with oral proficiency in Spanish.
• Adherence to all City policies and procedures.
• Good physical health suitable for the role's demands.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Predominantly indoor office or laboratory environments with some exposure to outdoor conditions.
• Handling light to moderate physical exertion, including occasionally lifting or moving objects up to 35 pounds.
• Work may expose the employee to fumes, airborne particles, toxic substances, and occasional communicable diseases.
• Travel primarily local and regional; no international travel expected.
• Position requires maintaining a functional, safe working environment without exposure to high-risk situations such as construction sites, confined spaces, or hostile individuals.

Education and Experience

• Associate degree in Environmental Science or Microbiology from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of three years’ practical experience in water or wastewater laboratory testing.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid Texas Driver's License is mandatory; out-of-state license holders must obtain Texas license within six months.
• Preferably, possession of a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Plant Operation License.
• Required to obtain a Lab Analyst certification from the Texas Water Utilities Association within one year of hire.

Additional Information

• Applicants must pass thorough background checks and provide certified academic transcripts.
• Drug and alcohol screening required before employment and random testing applies for safety-sensitive roles.
• The City is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer that values diversity and inclusion across all dimensions.
• Applicants with disabilities seeking accommodations should contact Human Resources with sufficient notice.