Soil Testing Laboratory Manager

Job Description

The position serves as the senior manager of the Virginia Tech Soil Testing Laboratory, a complex, revenue generating operation that processes more than 50,000 soil samples annually and generates over $150,000 in service revenue. The role has primary responsibility for strategically directing laboratory operations that support Virginia Cooperative Extension, public clientele, agribusiness, and university research. The position oversees the delivery of scientifically defensible soil fertility analyses and fertilizer and lime recommendations that have statewide agricultural, environmental, and economic impact, as well as thousands of elemental analyses in support of externally funded research programs.

The position exercises broad managerial authority over personnel, finances, compliance, and operational systems. Responsibilities include hiring, supervising, evaluating, and developing all salaried and hourly staff; administering multiple operating budgets, revenue and recharge accounts, and an instrument replacement fund; and ensuring compliance with University financial, safety, and regulatory requirements while serving as Laboratory Chemical Hygiene Officer. The position directs all quality assurance and analytical performance standards, oversees laboratory infrastructure including major instrumentation and information management systems, and leads continuous improvement initiatives that modernize workflows, expand services, and increase efficiency. It represents the laboratory to Extension, regulatory agencies, researchers, and external stakeholders, providing institutional leadership, technical oversight, and decision making authority consistent with a senior laboratory management role.

Required Qualifications

Masters degree in Agronomy, Soil Science or Soil Chemistry, or related area; and/or equivalent training and work experience. Considerable knowledge of methods for fertility analysis of soil and experience with similar laboratory equipment. Ability to supervise, including selection, training, instruction and evaluation. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with and between employees. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with the public, extension and research personnel providing relevant information on laboratory methodology and fertilizer & lime recommendations. Skill in repairing/maintaining the instrumental and computer components of the laboratory.

Preferred Qualifications

MS degree in the sciences.