Technical Manager - Crop Science

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

POSITION SUMMARY

This position is responsible for monitoring the technical aspects of the SGS Crop Science Analytical testing, North American Operations in conjunction with requirements of the Quality Management System under ISO/IEC 17025 and GLP. This includes method development, method validation, verification, method transfer, assessment of client data, technical audits and proficiency testing/round robin (PT/RR) performance.  This position will oversee method development work for the analytical and residue testing laboratories and include oversight of routine residue testing as well. 

REPORTING LINE

Directly reports to:  Director of Operations, US Crop Science

JOB FUNCTIONS

• Responsible for new method development for residue analysis, analytical testing and other methods as applicable for the US Crop Science analytical and residue testing teams
• Establish, improve and maintain lean and effective method validation, verification and method consistency to align with the current technical requirements and with the international standard ISO/IEC 17025 and/or GLP for testing laboratories
• Reviews and approves method validation / verification / transfer / development
• Support effective corrective action to on time closure with other responsible personnel; follow up on effectiveness of corrective action
• Liaise with site Operations Managers, Quality Systems Manager, Chief Chemists and Client Services personnel in response to complaints involving data non-conformances
• Work with Chief Chemists and department Supervisors to continuously improve lab technical capabilities and services.
• Contribute to the training and development of all technical staff in standardised, technical quality policies and procedures.
• Remote interrogation of NAM SLIM databases to monitor Quality Control conformance as well as organize and schedule site audits, if necessary, for same.
• Review and evaluate QC deviations for impact assessment.
• Monitor internal QC and PT/RR performance for biases and trends across the regional business operations and recommend actions as required.
• Prepare statistical data evaluation for client complaints, audit findings, PT/RR performance and/or quality control failures as assigned
• Advises and reviews LIMS performance module set ups to ensure appropriate tolerances, limits and verification criteria are in place when methods are developed/modified and/or equipment is introduced.
• Prevent release of any report, Certificate of Analysis, or information to the customer when a deficiency is identified during a technical audit.
• Approve method development forms provided from the client or SGS for method transfer studies (changes, validation, verification etc.)
• Ensure major technical non-conformances are brought to the attention of the Quality Systems Manager and Director of Operations.
• May work as a backup in designated areas in the absence of Laboratory Manager.
• Work on special projects as assigned by the Quality Systems Manager and/or Regional Business Manager
• Liaise with SGS affiliates in regard to technical integration, both within the NAM Minerals Services team and the global Geochemistry network. Travel and temporary secondment may be required

LEADERSHIP/SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides guidance and/or leadership to others, including indirect reports, peers, or managers  Yes
• Please provide examples of supervisory responsibilities
• Has hiring and terminating responsibilities
• Supervises others   No
• Number of employees directly reporting

JOB COMPLEXITY

• Multitasking is a must: Many reports, data, methods may come at the same time. Prioritizing for the best output for the business needs.
• Sometimes processes and procedures do not work efficiently and effectively, alternative resolutions need to be proposed.
• Support US Analytical, Residue  and GLP Laboratories
• This is an advisory role, helping the local teams navigate new validations and setups.

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

• Incumbent must be aware the impact of his/her decisions may have direct impact on clients. For example: turn around time, quality of results
• Incumbent must be aware the impact of his/her decisions may have direct impact on corporate goals or objectives resulting in significant impact on the success of the organization. For example: expense of rework, risk to SGS reputation and loss of business from public disclosure of non-conformances.

ANALYTICAL THINKING/PROBLEM SOLVING

• Assure conformance level is maintained for technical requirements of Quality Management System irrespective of operational and production pressures.
• Help internal auditors for any technical assistance if required.
• Provides direction for method troubleshooting validation / verification / transfer.

COMMUNICATION/CONTACTS

Contact (Internal/External)   Purpose of communication  Written or Verbal or Both (W/V/B)

• Internal  Training, Counseling, coaching  Both
• Internal  Internal Audit reports  Both
• Internal  CAPA investigation Both
• External e-mails to correspond and/or convince data acceptability or method validity Both
• Internal  Support to affiliates with respect to technical policies and procedures, statistical evaluation  Both

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Education: A minimum of a BSc degree (or equivalent) is required. Required
• Experience: Over five years
• Previous experience in validation and verification of methods is required. 
• Previous experience in statistical evaluation is required.  Required
• Previous experience with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements is preferred. Preferred
• Masters or PhD in chemisty or associated science fields.  Preferred

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES

• Must have proven technical experience and knowledge in analytical laboratory operations
• Must have experience and expertise in data analysis and statistical evaluation
• Relevant technical knowledge in ISO/IEC 17025
• Candidates must be proficient in using various type of computer software (Word, Excel, Outlook etc.).
• Must be able to multitask and schedule on time delivery: Proven ability to manage and coordinate multiple projects in a fast-paced, highly professional environment.
• Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills including grammar and composition.
• Ability to work well with others & independently.
• Works well under pressure.
• Ensures full compliance with the company’s Health & Safety, Code of Integrity, and Professional Conduct policies.
• Appropriate attitude, constant vigilance, attention to detail and following SGS policies and procedures applicable to the business

ADDITIONAL KSAS

•  Ability to manage and coordinate multiple projects in a fast-paced, highly professional environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE JOB

Frequency (Never = 0%; Seldom = 1 to 5%; Occasional = 5 to 33%; Frequent = 34 to 66%; Constant = 67 to 100%)

• Confined sitting (limited freedom to move about)  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Standing  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Walking  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Climbing, crawling, crouching or other physically demanding work position
• Tasks requiring limited muscle effort, for example lifting up to 5 kgs
• Tasks requiring light physical effort, for example lifting 5 kgs to 10 kgs
• Tasks requiring medium physical effort, for example lifting 10 kgs to 20 kgs
• Tasks requiring heavy physical effort, for example lifting  gt; 20 kgs

ENVIRONMENTAL AND WORK CONDITIONS

Frequency (Never = 0%; Seldom = 1 to 5%; Occasional = 5 to 33%; Frequent = 34 to 66%; Constant = 67 to 100%)

• Regular office environment   Constant (67% - 100%)
• Unpleasant or noxious smells or fumes
• Dust, grease oil  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Loud noises  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Constant, moderate noise  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Exposed to poor weather
• Exposed to heat or cold
• Moving vehicles (car, forklift)
• Travel Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Wearing protective equipment  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Exposure to infections/hormones/bacterial environment
• Possible exposure to regulated hazardous substances (e.g., lead)  Seldom (1% - 4%)
• Working with equipment, machinery, tools
• Inadequate work environment (workspace/lighting/ventilation)

OTHER PHYSICAL/WORK ENVIRONMENT FACTOR

VISION REQUIREMENT

• No Special Vision Requirement
• Close Vision (clear vision at 20 inches/50 centimeters or less)
• Distance Vision (clear vision at 20 feet/6 meters or more)
• Peripheral Vision (ability to observe an area that can be seen up and down or to the left and right while eyes are fixed on a given post)
• Depth Perception (three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distance and three-dimensional relationship)
• Ability to adjust focus (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus)
• Ability to see color

AUDITORY REQUIREMENTS

• No special auditory requirements
• Provide with specific auditory requirements

HEALTH, SAFETY, AND ENVIRONMENT

• Fit for Duty Medical – general physical and questionnaire related to physical efforts of job  Required
• Accountable for the Health, Safety and Environment performance of self and colleagues and adherence to all regulations as per the Company Health and Safety Manual and the immediate reporting of any health, safety or environmental incidents, accidents, concerns or hazards to the Manager / Supervisor and H&S representative for action.  Required
• Demonstrates good and safe work habits and enforces a clean working environment. Required
• Adheres to all safety management system (OIMS) and quality management system (QMS) training, policies and procedures, including manuals, test procedures, work instructions and the monitoring and/or verification of equipment and processes relating to testing activities.  Required

Additional Information

SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status a s a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

If you are applying for a position within the United States and you have difficulty completing the on-line employment application because of a disability, please call 201-508-3149 for assistance and leave a message. You will receive a call back. Please note, this phone number is not for general employment information, but is only for individuals who are experiencing difficulty applying for a position due to a disability.