Supervisor, Operational Systems Support

Come Be Part of a Mission that Matters!

The Operational Systems Support Supervisor at Neogen plays a critical role in supporting our laboratory automation efforts, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and achieving high performance. This role is essential for implementing and managing automation strategies that optimize our high-throughput laboratory environment, ensuring minimal errors and effective performance.
The supervisor will be a hands-on leader who directly supports a team of automation specialists, oversees the operation of automated systems, and coordinates with vendors to address technical issues. Maintaining compliance standards, refining performance metrics, and ensuring accurate documentation are key responsibilities in this role, supporting operational consistency and continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Supervise and guide a team of automation specialists, including those involved in liquid handling and equipment maintenance, to maintain and advance laboratory operations.
• Assist in the execution of automation strategies within the laboratory, identifying opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and reduce errors.
• Contribute to ongoing improvement initiatives by evaluating and refining automated processes to support performance metrics and operational goals.
• Oversee the deployment, testing, qualification, validation, and training of automated systems and equipment, ensuring effective integration and functionality.
• Act as a key contact for troubleshooting and resolving issues related to instrumentation, equipment, and control software, collaborating with external vendors as needed to provide a hands-on approach to resolving issues and supporting team needs.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory testing and re-validation protocols, promptly addressing issues and managing the reintegration of serviced instruments into workflows.
• Assist in monitoring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track uptime, team performance, equipment maintenance, and system utilization, working with the team to ensure procedural consistency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, as well as external partners, to maintain comprehensive documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), instrument qualifications, work instructions, and training materials.
• Support efforts to improve liquid handling and integrated work cells, focusing on enhancing uptime and operational efficiency while being mindful of return on investment.
• Provide regular updates on equipment and project statuses, maintaining collaborative relationships with management and stakeholders.
• Assist in delivering targeted training programs to enhance the skills of the OSS team, fostering a positive and engaging work environment.
• Contribute to the development and execution of equipment management and support systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the team and department.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Additional certifications or training in automation technologies being advantageous.
• Prior experience working with advanced laboratory automation technologies, including liquid handling systems and integrated work cells.
• Ability to support and guide a team of automation specialists, fostering skill development and ensuring effective performance in a high-throughput laboratory environment.
• Robust mechanical, electrical, and software troubleshooting skills, with a hands-on approach to resolving issues and supporting team needs.
• Strong understanding of laboratory automation systems, including the ability to write scripts for liquid handling robots and troubleshoot robotic scheduling software.
• Strong attention to detail in maintaining comprehensive documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and instrument qualifications, while ensuring adherence to compliance standards.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with scientific, engineering, operations, and quality teams, as well as external partners, to drive project success and foster collaborative relationship

WHO IS NEOGEN:

Neogen is home to the largest genomic operation in the world! Our worldwide genomics operations deliver innovative, affordable DNA testing for the discovery and commercial application of genomic advances that enhance the safety and abundance of life. Our genomics tools are used by farmers and ranchers, and veterinary practitioners, to provide the best animal care possible, as well as enhance breeding programs.

Neogen’s culture combines stability with a deep belief in providing professional and personal growth. Our Pillars of Trust — the principles that guide our everyday decision-making, include Openness, Honesty, Credibility, Respect, and Service. It’s our belief in these characteristics that provides a consistent, happy and healthy work environment for our employees.