Group Leader, Sample Receiving

McKinney Specialty Labs; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

McKinney Specialty Labs in Richmond, VA seeks a Group Leader, Sample Receiving to oversee daily receiving operations and lead a team ensuring accurate, timely and compliant processing of laboratory samples.

The role emphasizes hands-on duties, staff development and cross-department collaboration to uphold quality and safety standards in a state-of-the-art facility.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in sample receiving or related lab operations.
• Strong organizational, communication and time-management skills are required.
• Leadership experience in a supervisory role is preferred.
• Knowledge of chain-of-custody procedures and lab quality standards is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily Sample Receiving operations, including staffing, workflow, and priorities.
• Supervise, train, and mentor team members to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Oversee sample receipt, labeling, accessioning, documentation, storage and distribution to labs.
• Maintain accurate chain-of-custody documentation and data entry in LIMS.
• Collaborate with QA and client engagement teams to ensure timely communication and efficient processing.
• Update SOPs and support process improvements and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Team leadership

Coordination

Organization

Communication

Problem solving

Time management

Education

Chemistry/Biology/Environmental Science degree

Tools

LIMS

Job description

Description

About McKinney Specialty Labs

McKinney Specialty Labs is an innovative scientific organization that draws upon decades of extensive expertise in testing nicotine and other aerosolized products. We employ subject matter experts with extensive scientific knowledge, utilize robust and validated analytical methods, and offer testing flexibility to meet the diverse needs of our clients.

Our mission is to deliver best-in-class product testing and global regulatory science solutions to our clients through our experience, people and technology. We accomplish this by offering our clients the highest quality testing services in a state-of-the-art facility, all conducted according to our Values: Excellence, Collaboration, Integrity, Innovation, and Respect.

We are a new and growing company located in Richmond, Virginia. We offer competitive pay and a comprehensive benefit package, including medical, dental, vision and 401 (k).

Position Summary

McKinney Specialty Labs is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Group Leader, Sample Receiving to oversee daily sample receiving operations and lead a team responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of laboratory samples. This hands‑on leadership role ensures operational efficiency, sample integrity, and adherence to quality and safety standards while supporting employee development and collaboration across laboratory departments.

Essential Responsibilities

• Lead, coordinate and execute daily Sample Receiving operations, including staffing, workflow, scheduling, and operational priorities.
• Supervise, train, and mentor team members, promoting accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee and perform sample receipt, inspection, labeling, accessioning, documentation, storage, and distribution to laboratory departments.
• Ensure accurate chain‑of‑custody documentation, sample tracking, and data entry into laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Identify and resolve sample discrepancies, processing delays, and other operational challenges.
• Collaborate with laboratory teams, Quality Assurance, and Client Engagement to ensure timely communication and efficient sample processing.
• Maintain and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), address nonconformance issues, and support process improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with McKinney Specialty Labs' Quality Assurance Program, safety procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Perform hands‑on sample receiving duties as needed and support occasional split‑shift or weekend operations.
• Actively contribute to continuous improvement of departmental processes and workflows.
• Support process improvements and the transition to new information management systems and platforms.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in sample receiving, laboratory operations, sample management, or a related environment.
• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred; equivalent relevant experience considered.
• Knowledge of sample handling, chain‑of‑custody procedures, sample tracking, and laboratory quality standards.
• Strong organizational, communication, problem‑solving, and time‑management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate workflows, manage competing priorities, and provide effective team leadership.

Preferred Skills

• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience in a laboratory environment.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025 standards and laboratory quality management systems.
• Strong conflict resolution, coaching, and continuous improvement skills.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees so classified.

We believe in transparent compensation practices. The expected salary range for this position is $52,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year. Starting pay will be based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the requirements of the role.

Application Process

McKinney Specialty Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. McKinney Specialty Labs does not discriminate in hiring or employment practices based on race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, national origin, non‑job‑related disability, or status as a veteran.