LABORATORY SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

Position Information

Job Series: Laboratory – Career Path

Classification: Laboratory Supervisor/Expert

Class Code: SLA03P

Pay Grade: SPC03

Salary Range: $71,027 - $105,120

Hiring Authority:

Jami Sims

501/823-1741

jami.sims@arkansas.gov

Job Summary

The Laboratory Supervisor/Expert oversees the daily operations of assigned laboratory units within a state-run facility. This position provides leadership and technical direction to laboratory personnel, ensuring testing procedures are performed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable state and federal standards. This role is also responsible for upholding quality assurance protocols, staff training, and resource coordination to support the mission of the agency.

Primary Responsibilities

The assignment of supervisory duties is determined by the hiring agency's operational needs. Non-supervisory roles will serve as senior technical experts. Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of laboratory staff in testing, analysis, and reporting. Ensure adherence to safety protocols, state policies, and laboratory procedures. Monitor laboratory workflow to optimize efficiency and maintain quality standards. Assign tasks, manage schedules, and provide performance feedback for laboratory technologists and technicians. Implement and monitor quality control measures and participate in audits and inspections. Ensure all documentation, calibration records, and test results meet regulatory standards. Troubleshoot testing anomalies or equipment malfunctions and initiate corrective actions. Serve as a subject matter expert in test methodology, instrumentation, and lab technologies. Assist in method validation, procedure updates, and implementation of new testing platforms. Review and approve laboratory results when appropriate under applicable certification.

Knowledge and Skills

Effectively manages people and resources to achieve performance goals. Clearly conveys technical instructions and policy information to team members. Ensures accuracy in test results, documentation, and quality control procedures. Addresses operational or technical challenges with logical, evidence-based solutions. Prioritizes multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment without compromising quality.

Minimum Qualifications

At least three years of experience in laboratory science, or a related field, including six months in a leadership capacity.

Preferred Qualifications

. Experience supervising or mentoring laboratory staff in a diagnostic or serology setting.
. Strong proficiency with ELISA and related serologic testing methods.
. Demonstrated expertise in QA/QC practices, including control charting and corrective actions.
. Hands-on skill in troubleshooting and maintaining plate readers, washers, and other serology
. Experience optimizing LIMS workflows and ensuring integrity across testing processess.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.