Crop and Environmental Quality Lab Manager

University of Georgia; Kentucky; On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Eligible for full-time employee benefits

Job summary

The University of Georgia is looking for a Lab Manager for the Crop and Environmental Quality Lab. This position requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and involves managing laboratory analyses, ensuring QA/QC compliance, training staff, and supporting research projects.

Located in Athens, GA, the role offers a vigorous work environment with responsibilities ranging from preparing samples to interacting with clients. Full-time employee benefits are available. Applications are accepted until filled.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience.
• Strong laboratory background and experience with detailed SOPs.
• Experience in operating analytical instruments (HPLC, GC, spectrophotometer, ICP).
• Ability to maintain equipment and troubleshoot analytical issues.
• Basic software knowledge and willingness to learn new software.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized with a team mindset.

Responsibilities

• Conduct chemical analysis of samples following established protocols.
• Prepare manuscripts and reports while ensuring quality assurance.
• Provide logistical and technical support for research projects.
• Communicate with clients about lab services and sample submission.
• Supervise and train graduate students and temporary staff.

Skills

Laboratory analysis

HPLC

GC

ICP

Quality assurance

Microsoft Office

Analytical troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science

Tools

Spectrophotometer

Job description

Crop and Environmental Quality Lab Manager

Position Summary: This is an advanced laboratory technician position that will serve as the primary analyst for the Crop Quality section of the UGA Agricultural and Environmental Services Laboratory (AESL). Responsibilities include sample preparation (fruits, vegetables, edible oils, plant tissues, drinking water, etc.) and analysis using HPLC, GC, UV spectrophotometers, and ICP while ensuring QA/QC criteria are met. The position will work with senior laboratory personnel to develop new analysis procedures, support ongoing and future research projects, and serve as a point of contact for clients.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary analyst conducting chemical analysis of agricultural and environmental samples following established SOPs and QA/QC protocols.
• Perform logging of samples, making solutions, extractions, sample preparation, analyzing samples using HPLC, GC, spectrophotometer, and ICP, data entry, report generation, and troubleshooting equipment.
• Prepare manuscripts, proposals, research reports, lab promotional materials, and SOPs.
• Implement established quality assurance program.
• Partner with senior laboratory personnel to provide logistical and technical support for ongoing and future research projects, including occasional field sample collection.
• Collect fruit and vegetable harvest, soil, plant tissue samples, and establish and maintain field plots.
• Support the daily operation of the laboratory including purchasing supplies, maintaining equipment, and managing chemical inventories.
• Communicate with existing and potential clients about the services offered and how to submit samples for analysis.
• Provide training and supervision to graduate students, temporary employees, and student workers on sample preparation and analysis procedures.
• Provide backup support for analysts in other areas of the laboratory in their absence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience.
• Strong laboratory background with experience developing and following detailed SOPs.
• Significant experience operating analytical laboratory instruments (HPLC, GC, spectrophotometer, ICP) and a detailed understanding of laboratory QA/QC practices.
• Willingness and ability to maintain analytical equipment and troubleshoot issues during analysis.
• Basic software knowledge (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and willingness to learn new computer software.
• Ability to plan/prioritize tasks and operate independently.
• Highly detail-oriented, organized, and willing to work as part of a team.

Physical Demands

• Periodically working in adverse weather conditions during field sampling.
• Driving as needed to perform job tasks.
• Lifting up to 50 lbs.

Posting Details

Posting Number: S15378P
Location: Athens, GA
Department: CAES-Ag & Environmental Services Lab
Classification: Lab Coord-Life Science II
FLSA: Exempt
FTE: 1.00
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Opening Until Filled: Yes
Closing Date: Proposed Starting Date 08/17/2026

Salary

Commensurate with experience.

Benefits

Eligible for full-time employee benefits (details available upon hiring).

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact: Daniel Jackson
Email: [e-mail]