Staff Development Supervisor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The Section Supervisor provides day-to-day operational and technical leadership for the Bacteriology Laboratory, ensuring the delivery of accurate, timely, and high-quality diagnostic services. Reporting to the VDL Faculty Section Head of Bacteriology, this position supervises laboratory staff, coordinates workflow, supports quality and safety programs, and ensures compliance with established laboratory, regulatory, and accreditation standards. The role requires strong technical expertise in bacteriology and related diagnostic disciplines, effective supervisory and communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to balance hands-on laboratory testing with daily operational responsibilities. Through effective staff leadership, technical oversight, and continuous process improvement, the Section Supervisor supports the departments commitment to excellence in diagnostic service, quality, safety, and customer service 

Job Responsibilities

25%- Laboratory Operations and Technical Oversight

• Supervise and coordinate daily bacteriology laboratory operations to ensure accurate, timely, and consistent completion of diagnostic testing.
• Perform and participate in hands-on laboratory testing, including bacteriology, mycology, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and other routine diagnostic workflows, as needed to support section workload.
• Review and evaluate laboratory data and results to identify errors, inconsistencies, or unusual findings and ensure appropriate follow-up.
• Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support for laboratory procedures, diagnostic processes, instrumentation, and workflow issues.
• Ensure appropriate use, maintenance, calibration, and performance of laboratory equipment.
• Coordinate workflow and prioritize testing activities based on workload, staffing, turnaround-time requirements, and established section priorities. 

20%- Quality Management, QA/QC, and Safety Compliance

• Lead quality assurance and quality control activities in accordance with the VDL Quality Manual and System Policies.
• Ensure all procedures are performed according to VDL Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Investigate nonconforming work, conduct root cause analyses and risk assessments, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Oversee preparation for internal and external audits, including responses to findings and implementation of corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, and quality system expectations.
• Oversee equipment maintenance, documentation, and environmental monitoring systems (e.g., Oceasoft) to ensure proper operation and compliance.
• Lead and support continuous improvement efforts within the section.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, biosafety, and biosecurity requirements. 

20%- Supervision and Staff Development

• Directly supervise laboratory staff and student employees, including recruitment, onboarding, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Assign, prioritize, and monitor work to ensure responsibilities are completed accurately and within established timelines.
• Provide coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to support staff growth and engagement.
• Address performance concerns and implement corrective actions as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate job descriptions, competency records, and training documentation for section personnel.

15%- Section Operations and Administration

• Coordinate day-to-day section operations, including workflow, staffing, supplies, equipment, and other operational resources.
• Monitor workload, turnaround times, staffing needs, and resource requirements and communicate operational concerns to the Faculty Section Head and/or Director.
• Assist with budgeting, purchasing, inventory management, and operational planning within established policies and delegated authority.
• Identify and implement operational improvements that enhance efficiency, testing capacity, service quality, and workflow.
• Exercise independent judgement in resolving operational and technical issues within established policies, procedures, and delegated authority. 

10%- Media Laboratory and Production Oversight

• Supervise media production activities to ensure the availability of high-quality media for internal testing and external clients.
• Monitor media quality control, inventory, production schedules, and related documentation.
• Ensure media production processes are performed in accordance with established quality, regulatory, and operational requirements.
• Identify and address production or inventory issues that may affect laboratory operations.

5%- Program and Process Improvement

• Assist with the development and implementation of new diagnostic tests, services, procedures, equipment and laboratory capabilities.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvement, revenue growth, and expanded laboratory services.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and initiatives that support established VDL and section priorities.
• Apply current scientific literature and technical knowledge to support improvements in diagnostic testing and laboratory operations.
• Maintain professional knowledge, technical expertise, and leadership skills relevant to laboratory operations and management.

5%- Miscellaneous Duties 

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Faculty Section Head and/or VDL Director. 

Location and Work Environment 

• This position is located within the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) and requires on-site leadership and participation in daily laboratory operations. 
• The work environment includes administrative, laboratory, and operational settings within a fast paced diagnostic laboratory that supports animal health and disease surveillance activities.
• The Section Supervisor works closely with laboratory staff, faculty, veterinarians, r