Our Environmental Toxicology Laboratory plays a vital role in this mission by investigating the causes of toxicity in environmental samples, identifying the mechanisms responsible, and developing or recommending practical solutions to remove or reduce toxicity. The lab supports both research and applied projects, combining biological testing with advanced analytical techniques to help clients meet environmental regulations and protect aquatic ecosystems. At BQE, curiosity is encouraged, collaboration is key, and professional growth is supported. Our diverse and inclusive team is united by a shared commitment to scientific integrity, environmental stewardship, and innovation in water and toxicity management.
The Opportunity
Are you an experienced ecotoxicologist who enjoys leading teams, coordinating projects, and ensuring laboratory excellence? BQE Water is seeking a Lab Supervisor to oversee daily operations and technical performance within our Environmental Toxicology Laboratory. In this role, you will lead a team of biologists and technicians in conducting aquatic toxicity tests, ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining high QA/QC standards, and supporting both research and client-driven projects.
You’ll be a key point of contact for project coordination and client communication, while remaining hands-on in testing, troubleshooting, and data review. This position is ideal for a technically skilled and organized professional who excels at mentoring others, managing multiple priorities, and maintaining operational efficiency in a dynamic laboratory environment.
Our toxicology laboratory focuses on:
- Toxicity characterization: determining why samples are toxic through analytical and biological testing, data interpretation, and troubleshooting
- Standard tests: performing acute and chronic toxicity tests with aquatic species following regulatory protocols
- Mechanism and mitigation of toxicity: identifying the mechanisms responsible for toxicity in environmental samples to inform solutions for reducing or removing toxicity
Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate the activities of the ecotoxicology team, including biologists and laboratory technicians
- Plan, assign, and monitor daily laboratory work to ensure efficient use of resources and timely project delivery
- Lead and participate in biological and chemical analyses on water, sediment, and soil samples following ECCC biological test methods and laboratory SOPs
- Oversee and review acute and chronic toxicity testing to ensure compliance with EPS 1/RM/xx methods, QA/QC standards, and regulatory requirements
- Review and approve test data, calculations, and reports prior to release, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and traceability
- Manage client communication related to project scoping, scheduling, progress updates, and technical discussions
- Prepare or review cost estimates and quotations for client testing requests
- Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback to team members to support professional growth and laboratory capability
- ·Troubleshoot analytical and biological test issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective and preventive actions
- Support method development, validation, and continuous improvement of test procedures and SOPs
- Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and operation of laboratory instruments and equipment
- Maintain compliance with all laboratory safety, quality assurance, and data integrity policies
- Collaborate with the Lab Manager to support resource planning, staff training, and workload forecasting
- Participate in internal audits and contribute to QA documentation and performance metrics
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Lab Manager.
Qualifications & Requirements
- B.Sc. in Biology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline (M.Sc. is preferred)
- 7-10 years of experience in an environmental toxicology laboratory or directly related experience
- Strong working knowledge of ECCC biological test methods (EPS 1/RM/xx series) and familiarity with regulatory requirements
- Demonstrated experience supervising or mentoring technical staff in a laboratory environment
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including experience in client coordination and technical discussions
- Safety-conscious and familiar with handling toxic or hazardous substances
- Able to work full-time, on-site in our laboratory (this position does not allow remote work)
Compensation Package
- Competitive salary
- Health coverage on hire with a company-funded additional flexible healthcare spending account upon probation completion
- Up to 5% GRRSP matching
- Up to $1,000 annually in education matching
- Career development support e.g. professional dues registration costs
- Complimentary staff gym
- Bonus week of paid festive leave company-wide
- CEO Industry Information Sessions hosted monthly
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $100,000.00-$120,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person, Vancouver