Overview
THE OPPORTUNITY:
Join the Washington State Department of Health’s Public Health Laboratories (PHL), where science meets purpose. We’re looking for an Environmental Microbiology Supervisor to lead a skilled team advancing the early detection of pathogens like SARS-CoV-2, Influenza, Legionella, Monkeypox, and West Nile virus. This work directly protects the health of communities across the state.
You’ll also support the National Shellfish Sanitation Program, helping ensure Washington’s iconic shellfish harvests remain safe for everyone to enjoy. This role is fast-paced, and deeply impactful and is perfect for someone who thrives at the intersection of science, leadership, and public service.
This is a hands-on leadership role based onsite at the Public Health Laboratories, where your technical expertise and people-first supervision will help ensure high-quality results, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement across multiple testing programs.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and mentor a talented team of environmental microbiologists, ensuring training, performance, and quality standards are met.
Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, including quality control, proficiency testing, and accreditation compliance (CAP, FDA, ISO 17025).
Plan and review validation studies, maintain safety practices, and keep laboratory methods and SOPs current.
Manage multiple budgets, grants, and contracts to ensure resources align with program goals and deliverables.
Participate directly in laboratory work when needed — from testing to troubleshooting and staff training.
Collaborate across the Public Health Laboratories to share expertise, support other teams, and advance cross-disciplinary public health initiatives.
About Washington Department of Health
At DOH, we safeguard public health in an ever-evolving world. Through collaboration with local health jurisdictions and state, federal, and private partners, our programs, and services impact every Washingtonian and visitor daily. We're driven by Equity, Innovation, and Engagement, as outlined in our Transformational Plan for the future of Washington health.
