The Laboratory Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Reading laboratory, ensuring accurate and timely testing, maintaining compliance with regulatory and quality standards, and leading laboratory personnel. This role provides technical guidance, manages workflows, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and ensures a safe and efficient laboratory environment.
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· Supervise daily laboratory activities to ensure efficient workflow and timely completion of testing and analyses.
· Coordinate sample receipt, processing, testing, and reporting activities.
· Monitor laboratory performance metrics and implement corrective actions as needed.
· Ensure proper operation, maintenance, calibration, and validation of laboratory equipment.
· Maintain adequate laboratory inventory, supplies, and reagents.
· Supervise, coach, and mentor laboratory technicians, analysts, and support staff.
· Conduct employee training, performance evaluations, and competency assessments.
· Develop staffing schedules to meet operational requirements.
· Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
· Ensure compliance with company policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
· Review laboratory data, test results, and documentation for accuracy and completeness.
· Assist with internal and external audits and inspections.
· Investigate non-conformances, deviations, and out-of-specification results.
· Support implementation and maintenance of quality management systems.
· Promote and enforce laboratory safety policies and procedures.
· Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory chemicals, biological materials, and hazardous waste.
· Conduct safety inspections and participate in incident investigations.
· Maintain compliance with OSHA and other applicable safety regulations.
· Identify opportunities to improve laboratory processes, efficiency, and productivity.
· Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs).
· Evaluate and deploy new testing methods to meet business needs.
· Participate in equipment selection, process improvement projects, and technology upgrades.
· Analyze trends and recommend operational improvements.
· Prepare reports on laboratory performance, quality metrics, and operational activities.
· Communicate testing priorities, issues, and results to management and internal stakeholders.
· Collaborate with production, quality, materials management, commercial, customer service and other departments as required.
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· Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Science, Environmental Science, or a related scientific discipline.
· 3-5+ years of laboratory experience.
· 1-3 years of supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
· Strong knowledge of laboratory testing methodologies and quality systems.
· Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) preferred.
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
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· Strong leadership and team management skills.
· Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
· Effective verbal and written communication skills.
· Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and regulatory requirements.
· Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
· Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity.
· Ability to make sound decisions and resolve technical issues.
· Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
· Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
· Manual dexterity required for laboratory procedures and equipment operation.
· Ability to work in a laboratory environment with exposure to chemicals, biological materials, and laboratory equipment.
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· Lean Six Sigma, ASQ, or related quality certifications.
· Experience with ISO, FDA, WQA, Kosher and BRC standards.
· Experience managing laboratory budgets and capital equipment projects.
· Advanced degree in a scientific field.
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Reports To: Regional Quality Control Manager
Objective: Present the main benefits and incentives for this role.
Guidelines: Highlight fair salary, bonuses, and other financial incentives if applicable. Mention also non-monetary benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible working hours. Emphasize any unique company perks or cultural aspects:
Brenntag provides equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees of all backgrounds and identities to create a workplace where difference is valued because it forms a resilient and more innovative organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, religion or belief, parental and family status, or any other protected characteristic. We welcome applications from women, men and non-binary candidates of all ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds.

Brenntag is the global market leader in chemicals and ingredients distribution and holds a central role in connecting customers and suppliers of the chemical industry. Headquartered in Essen, Germany, we have more than 18,100 employees worldwide and operate a network of around 600 sites in more than 70 countries. In 2024, the company generated sales of €16.2 billion.
The two global divisions, Brenntag Essentials and Brenntag Specialties, provide a diversified and broad portfolio of industrial and specialty chemicals and ingredients as well as tailor-made application, marketing and supply chain solutions, technical and formulation support, comprehensive regulatory know-how and digital solutions for a wide range of industries.
Brenntag pursues an ambitious sustainability agenda and is committed to sustainable solutions in its own sector and the industries served. Brenntag SE shares have been listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since 2010 and have been part of the DAX since September 2021. In addition, the Brenntag SE shares are listed in the DAX 30 ESG and DAX ESG Target.