Supervisor - CDC Forensic Laboratory

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Augusta, ME

About the position

The Supervisor for the Forensic Seized Drug Laboratory at the Maine CDC in Augusta, ME, is a pivotal role responsible for overseeing the seized drug testing section within the Forensic section of HETL. This position is designed to ensure that daily operations run smoothly and efficiently, with a focus on completing cases on schedule. The supervisor will communicate with customers to prioritize rush cases and assist in scheduling analysts for court dates. A critical aspect of this role involves becoming trained and competent in all methods necessary for performing seized drug testing, which includes participating in proficiency testing and technically reviewing seized drug cases. The supervisor may also be required to testify to the results of these cases in legal settings, ensuring that the laboratory's work meets the highest standards of scientific validity. In addition to overseeing operations, the supervisor will play a key role in training new analysts and ensuring that all team members are engaged in continuing education. This includes leading validations of new instruments and methods, participating in annual internal audits, and ensuring compliance with quality assurance practices. The supervisor will also be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing specialized instrumentation such as GC/MS, FTIR, and LC-MS/MS, as well as ensuring that all laboratory requirements are met for the analysis of controlled substances. This position is essential for maintaining the integrity and reliability of forensic testing services provided to law enforcement and the judicial system.

Responsibilities

• Supervise analysts performing complex analytical procedures to determine the presence of controlled substances from evidence submitted by law enforcement.
• Provide guidance and training to analysts and supervise daily operations in the lab.
• Interpret and evaluate analytical results for reporting purposes.
• Review and evaluate case contents to ensure scientific validity and compliance with laboratory requirements.
• Prepare written reports and testify as an expert witness in legal proceedings as needed.
• Assist with maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing specialized instrumentation including GC/MS, FTIR, LC, and LC-QTOF.
• Assist with validations of new methods and instrumentation.
• Ensure QA tasks including weekly and monthly maintenance on instruments are performed.
• Oversee inventory of chemicals and standards.
• Participate in internal audits and assist with document and procedure review, safety risk evaluations, and scheduling instruments for service.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biology, or Forensic Science.
• At least six years of experience in an analytical laboratory.
• Previous supervisory experience preferred.
• At least 24 semester hours of Chemistry, including at least 8 semester hours of Analytical Chemistry.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of internal and external partners.
• Experience examining evidence in a forensic lab for controlled substances and testifying in court.
• Experience signing/issuing final case reports.
• Experience working in an ISO 17025 Accredited laboratory.
• Familiarity with Quality Assurance and Control practices and procedures.
• Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills.
• Experience performing validations.
• Experience using advanced analytical instrumentation, including GC/MS, FTIR, and LC-MS/MS.
• Computer skills, including Microsoft Office, a LIMS system, and instrumentation software.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health insurance options.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.