Environmental Soil Chemistry Laboratory Manager

The University of Georgia is seeking an Environmental Soil Chemistry Laboratory Manager in Athens, GA. This role involves managing grant-funded research projects, coordinating schedules, overseeing sample analysis, and supporting laboratory experiments. The position requires collaboration with students and postdocs to ensure efficient workflows and successful project outcomes. The anticipated start date is May 1, 2025, and the salary is commensurate with experience.
Posting Number:

G/R28741P
Working Title:

Environmental Soil Chemistry Laboratory Manager
Department:

CAES-Crop & Soil Sciences
About the University of Georgia:

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.
Employment Type:

Employee
Advertised Salary:

Commensurate with Experience
Anticipated Start Date:

05/01/2025
Posting Date:

03/21/2025
Open Until Filled:

Yes
Location of Vacancy:

Athens Area
EOO Statement:

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Duties/Responsibilities:

Grant and Project Management
• Serve as project manager for grant-funded research in the ESC Lab.
• Develop and maintain project schedules to ensure timely completion of tasks and sample analyses
• Coordinate project meetings, maintaining documentation and reporting for funded activities
• Oversee sample throughput, ensuring efficient processing and analysis workflows
• Monitor employee performance in completing experiments and sample analysis, addressing challenges proactively

Percentage of time:

35
Duties/Responsibilities:

Grant Funded Research
• Conduct laboratory experiments following established protocols in collaboration with the PI
• Assist students and postdocs with research experiments and troubleshoot technical challenges
• Oversee sample preparation, processing, and analysis workflows, ensuring adherence to quality control measures
• Coordinate with external laboratories and facilities for collaborative research and specialized analyses.

Percentage of time:

35
Duties/Responsibilities:

Laboratory Operations Management
• Provide organizational oversight for laboratory instrument and laboratory and workstations
• Collaborate with employees and students to maintain seamless daily operations
• Maintain and regularly update the ESC procedures manual
• Oversee the daily operations of the Environmental Soil Chemistry Laboratory
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and regulatory standards

Percentage of time:

20
Duties/Responsibilities:

Personnel and Training Management
• Train and supervise laboratory personnel and students in laboratory procedures and safety protocols
• Organize and coordinate staff and student work schedules to optimize productivity
• Maintain training records and ensure all personnel meet necessary certifications
• Facilitate regular laboratory meetings to promote effective communication and teamwork

Percentage of time:

10
Classification Title:

Temporary Technical Paraprofessional
FLSA:

Non-Exempt
FTE:

1.00
Position Summary:

The position will coordinate and oversee project and sample workflows while managing the daily operations of the ESC, ensuring timely completion of project milestones and sample analyses. The position includes high-level oversight of laboratory instruments and workstations, collaborating with employees and students to ensure efficient operations. The position will maintain a comprehensive, up-to-date catalog of ESC procedures and provide dedicated project management for grant-funded activities.
Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position:
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software (e.g., R)
• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, or a related field
• 2 years of laboratory management experience
• Experience with soil analysis techniques and environmental sampling

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies :
• Capable of working safely with laboratory equipment and handling chemicals in compliance with safety standards.
• Advanced proficiency in laboratory safety protocols.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience with laboratory management as well as grant funded project management.

Physical Demands:
• Light lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Periods of sitting and standing in a laboratory environment.
• Work safely with laboratory equipment and handling chemicals in compliance with safety standards.

Is this a Position of Trust?:

Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? :

No
Does this position require a P-Card? :

No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :

No
Is driving a requirement of this position?:

Yes
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:

No
Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications):

Yes
Background Investigation Policy:

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Contact Details:

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name:

Aaron Thompson
Recruitment Contact Email:

aaront@uga.edu