Section Head - Virology

Job Title

Section Head

• Virology

Agency

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Department

College Station

• Virology

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Responsible for daily oversight of the laboratory operations in Virology testing section, including budgetary matters, routine testing, test development, client communications, quality assurance, safety, and employee well-being. Responsible for scientific accuracy, completeness, promptness, and generation of the associated laboratory results.

Ensure workflow coordination as well as appropriate and timely personnel management. Perform routine testing in the virology section when needed. Serve as a subject matter expert in the scientific discipline as appropriate.

Ensure timely and accurate implementation of new or modified SOPs. Provide workflow coordination and facilitate and

ensure consistency between TVMDL locations. Develop and validate diagnostic assays, generate and maintain related verification/validation records, and create associated procedures.

Implement new technologies and diagnostic capabilities. Evaluate, select, and execute standard and advanced scientific techniques used in a virology laboratory. Teach/train/mentor personnel as needed.

Participate as a productive team member in support of TVMDL objectives wherever feasible. Perform additional related duties as required or assigned by Assistant Agency Director (AAD) for Microbiology and Research. This role requires performance of routine and non-routine tasks of advanced complexity, regularly exercising independent decision making; the ability to troubleshoot routine and complex problems with and/or without supervision; make recommendations to supervisors; and work with minimal or no supervision.

Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging: Responsible for timely and accurate sample processing and preparation by section staff.

Ensure samples are properly accessioned, entering case data into TVMDL's laboratory information management system (LIMS), and ensuring samples are fit for purpose of test. File and/or catalogs samples, specimens or other diagnostic material for archival and validation purposes.

Testing: Provide scientific oversight for daily diagnostic testing in the section.

Serve as the subject matter expert on a discipline(s), technique(s) or diagnostic methodology(ies). Perform or interpret complex assays or techniques for routine and non-routine testing. Work closely with Diagnostic Services/Veterinary Services, fellow Section Heads, Assistant Section Heads, and Veterinary Pathologists in the coordination and testing of multiply assigned cases. Serve as a section point of contact/subject matter resource for colleagues in other TVMDL sections or locations. Implement steps for resolution of errors or process improvements.

Data Entry, Interpretation, Results: Read and record observations, results, and measurements into TVMDL's approved worksheets, check-lists, and into the LIMS.

These records are maintained in a manner so other informed laboratory personnel can always determine the status of a case. Coordinate progress of high consequence cases. Provide analysis and review of unexpected results or results of significance.

Provide diagnostic interpretation to clients based on test results and clinical histories. Serve as case coordinator or section point of contact for multiply assigned cases when appropriate. Review results from other sections, clarify conflicting results and provide interpretation as necessary.

Review and release results to clients in a manner consistent with TVMDL's published turnaround times. Responsible for the creation and revision of tests in LIMS. Maintains precise and accurate records of tested cases.

Client Communication: Provide excellent customer service to laboratory clients.

Communicate test results with clients and answer complex questions within competence triages complex calls from clients to veterinary diagnosticians and appropriate professional staff. Consult with TVMDL colleagues to provide a complete, holistic approach to case management for all clients when appropriate. Participate in meetings with industry representatives to discuss and design research efforts or identify new assays to benefit TVMDL and its clients.

Solicit information to better assess the feasibility and need for potential testing. May offer recommendations on sample selection, test selection, collection, shipment, etc. Coordinate test agreements as appropriate.

Mitigate client complaints as appropriate.

Quality Assurance & Safety: Adhere and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures in the laboratory.

Lead by example regarding quality assurance and safety activities. Responsible for safe handling of hazardous chemicals. Actively participate in quality assurance and safety programs.

Identify issues of noncompliance and nonconformance. Serve as owner for all section quality assurance documents. Responsible for aligning processes, when relevant, across agency locations.

Responsible for ensuring solutions to quality assurance and safety issues, including addressing corrective actions, preventative actions, and audit findings. Serve as the laboratory section's representative to Quality Assurance and/or Environmental Health & Safety Committees.

Write or Edit SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation: Serve as document manager for SOPs, procedures, forms, workflows and other quality assurance documents for both local (College Station) and system level virology documents; ensure timely and accurate review; responsible for the scientific accuracy and completeness of all quality assurance documents for the section.

Communicate with other TVMDL locations and ensure consistency in SOPs, procedures, and test methods. Write, review and/or edit quality assurance documents for section assays and procedures, ensuring proper formatting, content and compliance with quality assurance requirements. Responsible for the identification, resolution and implementation of process improvement protocols.

Identify need to edit/update SOPs, procedures, forms and other documents related to the work in the section. Prepare reports for special assignments.

Research, Reference Materials, Development: Engage in strategic review of new business opportunities which may include literature and market analysis.

In collaboration with clients, TVMDL leadership and fellow Section Heads, develop partnership for new development and business opportunities. Evaluate experimental and technical approaches for development or improvement of assays to expand the section's testing portfolio. May represent the section on the Test and Research Advisory Council.

Attends Research and Development meetings. Under the direction of the AAD for Microbiology and Research, lead and/or implement new assay development and validation, including test development, instrument configuration, and documentation of assay protocols, and modifications to existing processes. May apply for external grant funding.

Perform data collection and data analysis, as well as draft manuscripts for publication. Write journal articles and present scientific sessions documenting research discoveries. Periodically review current scientific literature and/or attend scientific and professional meetings to maintain awareness of developments in virology and/or promote efficient use of virology services by practitioners and producers.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment: Responsible for the fiscal management of section expenses.

Work closely with Finance staff and Assistant Section Head to adhere to procurement and purchasing procedures. Approve purchases of supplies for the section. Working with Assistant Section Head, ensure timely maintenance and repair of equipment, recommend maintenance agreements and vendors for long term viability of equipment.

Administrative Roles: Liaison with regulatory agencies at the local, state and federal levels when appropriate.

May interact with industry groups in the pursuit of improved relationships and collaboration. Testify in legal and administrative proceedings on behalf of the agency, as requested. Interpret industry policies as well as state, national and international law as applicable.

In collaboration with the Assistant Agency Director for Finance, establish and manage the section budget. Monitor the section caseload, noting changes in workload.

Proactively explore methods to increase revenue and decrease expenses when appropriate. Responsible for proactively developing and implementing section policies and procedures. Lead strategic planning efforts for the section.

Liaison with agency management on all projects, providing timely and relevant updates on section progress, challenges, opportunities and needs. Represent the section and/or agency on internal or external task forces, committees and workgroups as designated by agency management. Assist or lead the monitoring and recordkeeping for legal cases and "hold" cases.

Training and Mentorship: Responsible for ensuring appropriate, adequate, timely and routine training amongst section staff, to include scientific, technical, managerial and leadership competencies.

Responsible for ensuring proficiency testing of all employees within the Virology Section in College Station. Create and administer testing and training in the quality management software program. Responsible for ensuring all staff are adequately trained in use of the quality assurance program and LIMS software.

Responsible for maintenance of training records for direct reports. Identify further training needs and ensure training is completed in a timely manner. Provide backup to section staff in the event of absences. Successfully complete proficiency tests for assigned assays.

Supervisory, Evaluation, Employee Support: Responsible for staff recruitment, hiring, evaluation, counseling, development and termination for Student Assistants, Technicians, Lab Supervisors and Assistant Section Head.

Recommend promotions, re-classifications, and salary actions for direct reports. Develop justification and maintain documentation for all personnel actions. Provide proactive, collaborative, and effective direct oversight and leadership to direct reports.

Ensure employee actions are in compliance with Texas A&M System and TVMDL rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Create an ethical, non-discriminatory, positive, and safe work environment. Proactively identify and address personnel issues, manage conflict, and respond to grievances. Investigate complaints or performance concerns.

Identify staff development and training needs and ensure training is obtained. Ensure new staff receives necessary orientation training.

Monitor and document safety and quality assurance training as needed. Maintain training records for employees. Communicate regular updates and share agency-wide strategic information with all staff reporting through chain of command.

Serve as an advocate for employee issues with colleagues and agency management. Responsible for assisting employees in preparation for opportunities for promotion.

Determine appropriate and equitable distribution of work assignments to meet advertised turnaround times, quality assurance, safety and overall TVMDL objectives. Ensure employees provide high quality, consistent and positive customer service to laboratory clients and colleagues.

Review and approve timesheets, leave requests and other personnel requests. Set and approve staffing schedules to ensure adequate laboratory staff.

Supervising other Managers: Directly manage and coordinate the efforts of the Assistant Section Head and/or Lab Supervisor.

Ensure effective and appropriate management and leadership by subordinate supervisors. Provide coaching, training, and mentorship to support professional development for subordinate supervisors and the supervisor's employees. Responsible for assisting supervisors in preparation for opportunities for promotion.

Teamwork & Cooperation: Foster laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards and communication.

May participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8 AM, after 5 PM, on weekends or on holidays. Participate in the TVMDL Management Team monthly meetings. Disseminate relevant information from Quality Assurance, Safety, and Management Team meetings, as appropriate, to section staff and colleagues.

Collaborate with colleagues in other sections, TVMDL locations and other diagnostic laboratories across the country in development and pursuit of scientific advancement. Participate in industry recognized meetings and affiliations to gain knowledge within the relevant scientific disciplines and industries.

Other: Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Perform work in such a way as to not expose others or myself to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods.

Work in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows as appropriate. Assist/host/lead programs for 4-H students, career fairs, student tours and other lab guests.

Serve as an instructor for 4th year veterinary students in Diagnostics rotation and/or Food Animal track rotations, collaborating with TVMDL veterinarians to educate students in best practices for formulating differential diagnoses, test selection, sample submission, and results interpretation. Perform other job-related duties as required.

Required education and experience:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent and Master's in Veterinary virology or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Five or more years of related experience.

• Advanced knowledge of virology methods.

• Knowledge of quality assurance and safety programs in a laboratory.

• Able to perform assigned assays with no technical supervision and considerable independent decision making.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong managerial and leadership skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Ensures attention to detail and ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Veterinarian license in Texas or eligibility for Special License in Texas.

Preferred education and experience:

• Ph.D. in veterinary virology or related field.

• Six or more years of experience with routine virology testing procedures. Experience with quality control/assurance.

• Board certification or eligibility to sit for the examination in virology from the American College of Veterinary Microbiology (ACVM).

• Knowledge of animal viral pathogens, pathogens' biology and ecology, and zoonotic diseases.

• Thorough knowledge of concepts, practices, and standard laboratory procedures, including safety procedures.

• Proficient in operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

• Prior professional experience as a manager in a diagnostic laboratory.

• Demonstrated success in assuming increasing responsibility and independent decision making.

• Experience leading teams to solve complex tasks.

• Implement steps for resolution of errors or process improvements.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.