Reference Microbiology Supervisor

The University of Iowa; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The State Hygienic Laboratory at The University of Iowa is seeking a Microbiology Supervisor for its Coralville facility to oversee clinical specimen testing and staff, ensuring CLIA-compliant practices and safety standards. The role focuses on maintaining high-quality lab operations and providing leadership within the microbiology team.

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or related field, five years of relevant laboratory experience, and demonstrated project oversight

Qualifications

• Five years of clinical or public health laboratory experience.
• Experience with clinical microbiology testing.
• At least one year of project oversight experience.
• Working experience with QA/QC and lab safety.
• Demonstrated ability to foster a welcoming and respectful work environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Supervise laboratory testing of clinical specimens or isolates.
• Ensure sections operate under best laboratory practice and CLIA compliance.
• Oversee QA/QC and lab safety policies and staff.
• Lead and develop team members, promoting a positive work environment.
• Coordinate with department leadership and manage schedules as needed.

Skills

Team leadership

Communication

QA/QC

Lab safety

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or related field

Job description

The State Hygienic Laboratory (Iowa’s Environmental and Public Health Laboratory), at the University of Iowa, has an exciting full-time opportunity for a Microbiology Supervisor, in the Coralville, Iowa facility. This position supervises the laboratory testing of clinical specimens or isolates, for the purpose of disease diagnosis and treatment or surveillance. Ensures assigned sections are functioning under best laboratory practice and in compliance with CLIA regulations. Ensures assigned staff adhere to all laboratory safety and security policies.

To meet CLIA regulations, an official transcript or a copy of an official transcript will be required prior to an offer of employment. (Applicants with degrees from foreign institutions must have the transcripts evaluated by a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services http://www.naces.org/ and the applicant is responsible for all costs associated with that evaluation).

Work Schedule

M-F 8 a.m. -5 p.m., Holiday, Weekend, and on-call coverage is required.

Position Status

Regular

Work Modality

On-Site, In-Person

To learn more about the department visit https://shl.uiowa.edu/

About Pay and Compensation

Pay Grade: 5A

Qualifications

Education or Equivalency Required

A bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Required Qualifications

• Five years of clinical or public health laboratory experience.
• Previous experience with clinical microbiology.
• Demonstrate at least one-year experience providing project oversight.
• Working experience with QA/QC and lab safety.
• Demonstrated experience leading teams.
• Demonstrate job‑related experience with fostering a welcoming and respectful work environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including excellent attention to details.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

• Certification as an MLS or MLT by ASCP or AMT.
• A master’s degree in Microbiology, or related field.
• Demonstrate at least one-year experience in test validation and quality control.

Desirable Qualifications

• Demonstrated training or teaching experience.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, LIS, and preparation of fiscal and operational reports is desirable.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For additional questions, please contact: VPR Talent ( [e-mail] ).

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

About the University of Iowa

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.

Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well‑being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world‑class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.

Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Clinical Lab Supervisor
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Contact Information

• Contact Name: VPR Talent

Equal opportunity employer

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.

Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, [phone] or [e-mail]. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.