Sample Preparation Supervisor (P6)

When you join ALS, you join a purpose and values-driven team that empowers you to innovate, create, and thrive.

Our global team turns up each day with passion and commitment to do amazing things, always challenging our thinking to find ways to solve some of the world’s most complex problems for a safer, healthier world.

About the role

Reports to: Branch Manager

About the Position:

This position is responsible for supervising the productivity and quality of the branch and personnel for the ALS Geochemistry sample preparation facility in Sudbury, Ontario. The Sample Preparation Supervisor supervises and provides training to Sample Preparation staff and ensures productivity quotas and goals are met and/or exceeded. The priority for this position is to ensure the department runs smoothly and that all standards pertaining to client instructions are followed correctly.

Specific Responsibilities

Sample Preparation

• Manages the process of sample preparation as samples arrive in the lab;
• Maintains shift production levels and ensures sample preparation work meets required turnaround time;
• Coordinates and prioritizes daily workloads;
• Ensures that all Standard Operating Procedures are adhered to;
• Ensures that all staff follow safety procedures and policies when working;
• Performs work order entry checks;
• Determines when client sample processing instructions are missing, incomplete or ambiguous; accomplishes this by close liaison with layout personnel and the work order entry group;
• Maintains close liaison with Manager and other lab staff to ensure the smooth delivery of our services to clients;
• Identifies and resolves internal and external problems when they arise;
• Investigates client inquiries and complaints related to quality issues and be able to suggest proactive actions;
• Responsible for training of sample preparation staff and monitoring performance;
• Conducts monthly crew talk to discuss safety and quality issues with the staff;
• Assists in keeping staff training records and controlled documents up to date;
• Performs basic mechanical maintenance as required;
• Responsible for, monitoring and requesting lab supplies, payroll submittal, petty cash, weekly report submittal;
• Other duties as assigned.

Personnel

• In conjunction with our Head Office Human Resources team, you will be involved in employee interviews, recruiting and training staff as required;
• Schedules shifts/employee schedules and manages time keeping for staff;
• Actively manages staff including addressing performance issues as per ALS policies;
• Prepares and delivers employee performance evaluations, discipline, and other issues as they arise in consultation with the Manager;
• Communicates and ensures compliance with ALS employment policies and procedures;
• Communicates and ensures compliance with ALS safety, health, and environment policies.

Quality Assurance

• In conjunction with sample prep, is responsible for resolving quality issues;
• Maintains all quality documentation and records;
• Ensures all routine quality checks are performed and reported;
• Responsible for resolving quality issues in conjunction with the QA Department;
• Participates in and follows-up on quality audits;
• Updates and generates prep QC data charts;
• Use correct methods in accordance with the established procedures and schedules while ensuring analytical quality.

Safety

• Observe established safety regulations and comply with all ALS health and safety policies and procedures.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills;
• Proven ability to improve efficiencies and meet production schedules;
• Ability to lead and motivate a team;
• Understanding of Health & Safety Standards;
• Understanding of production SOP’s;
• Strong customer service focus, interpersonal and organizational abilities;
• Demonstrated judgment, integrity and ability to problem solve;
• Ability to effectively handle escalations and time critical issues;
• Ability to effectively manage change in a dynamic working environment;
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral;
• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines;
• Strong quality service attitude and approach;
• Sound decision making skills;
• Projects enthusiasm and motivation;
• Results focused;

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of Management and/or Supervisory experience in a production type facility;
• High school graduate required;
• Completion of a BSc or technical diploma in chemistry, geology, or business field preferred;
• Previous experience in laboratory or geological preparation facility an asset.

Physical Demands

• Ability to regularly lift 10 to 20lbs;
• Ability to work in a dusty environment;
• Manual dexterity to perform intricate and/or repetitive tasks;
• Wear issued personal protective equipment (PPE) such as dust masks, gloves etc., when required;
• Ability to stand for a full shift;
• Ability to sit at a desk and do general office work, which includes periodic sedentary responsibilities;
• Please note that ALS operates 24/7 and will require day, afternoon, and graveyard shift work including weekends.

Working at ALS

Our people are our most valuable asset and drive our success at ALS.

We are a diverse community of dedicated professionals united by our passion to make a difference in the world. We reward excellence and uphold our values in our work and how we treat each other.

At ALS, you’ll be supported to expand your skills and develop new ones so you can reach your full potential. We invest in our people with a range of programs and provide opportunities across the company, giving our people scope to grow diverse careers and develop as leaders.

We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and the communities where we work.

Our benefits include:

• Structured wage increases
• Comprehensive benefit package specific to your work status (including extended medical, dental, and vision coverage, access to company perks, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with company match, employee assistance and wellness programs,
• Additional vacation days for years of service
• Business support for education or training after 9 months with the company
• Learning & development opportunities (unlimited access to e-learnings and more)

About ALS

ALS is a global leader in scientific testing, providing comprehensive testing solutions to clients in more than 60 countries across a wide range of industries, including environment, food and beverage, mining, personal care, pharmaceutical, healthcare and equipment reliability. Using state-of-the-art technologies and innovative methodologies, our dedicated international teams deliver the highest-quality testing services and personalised solutions supported by local expertise. We help our clients leverage the power of data-driven insights for a safer and healthier world.

Everyone matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, military or veteran status, gender, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic characteristics protected by the law. We invite resumes from all interested parties, including women, Indigenous persons, members of minority groups, and persons living with disabilities.

ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Note: benefits vary based on employee status, e.g parttime, casual