Supervisor - Quality Control

SUMMARY

Responsible for monitoring and directing day to day operations of the QC Laboratory. Ensure that test methods comply with ASTM, governmental and industry standards. Test support to production, environmental and other departments. Responsible for preparation and maintenance of routine and non-routine test procedures.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

* Provide interpretive operation of analytical and physical testing equipment.

* Direct daily work assignments and priorities of direct reports.

* Direct intralab round robin sample selection and distribution to technicians, and chart test results to determine level of variation among laboratory personnel on each instrument.

* Ensure the proper maintenance and servicing of laboratory equipment.

* Maintain work schedule to ensure adequate coverage for all shifts.

* Complete and submit payroll for all direct reports, including hourly and salary non-exempt employees.

* Develop and implement training program for day-to-day operations, specialized testing and calibration of instruments

* Locate and source special testing with outside laboratories.

* Direct in the selection, set-up and operation of new laboratory testing equipment.

* Ensure laboratory safety program is in place and properly enforced.

* Attend appropriate seminars, conferences and training programs.

* Contact vendors to keep abreast of new instrumentation used in the industry in benefit to company.

* Maintain record of maintenance work and projects associated with QC labs.

* Prepare annual capital budget, including risk-ranking and technical justification.

* Establish and maintain control standards for the various laboratory tests.

* Assists in the preparation of appropriate training materials and helps coordinate the continuing education of laboratory personnel.

* Responsible for development, revision and application of procedures applicable to Quality Management, such as those pertaining to product specifications, customer specific specifications, product approval process (new and revised formulations), sampling procedures, and shipment approval process, as assigned.

* Have a working knowledge of site and department specific procedures regarding document control, quality records, product identification and traceability, inspection and testing, measuring, and test equipment, inspection and test status, control of nonconforming product, corrective and preventive action to meet ISO requirements.

* Participate as an internal quality (ISO) auditor.

* Perform LIMS tasks in support of LIMS Data Coordinator and LIMS updates and/or upgrades.

* Lead and support WCI projects, using continuous improvement methods, to improve laboratory capability and efficiency.

* Demonstrate good interpersonal skills, including communicating effectively, when interacting with internal and external customers (internal and external to Westlake), e.g. team-mindedness, enthusiasm, and positive attitude, in order to perform the essential functions of the job.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

* Perform the primary thinking encompassed by this job description.

* Comply with all Company policies and procedures.

* Fully supports Company goals of continuous improvement and operational excellence at strategic and tactical levels including reviewing area of responsibility for improvement opportunities to initiate projects or communicate ideas to management as well as active participation on project teams.

* Any additional responsibilities or tasks as assigned.

* Perform duties in a manner that protects personal safety as well as the safety of others. Promptly report Safety, Health or Environmental issues or incidents to management.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

* A current, valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is required.

* B. S. Degree in Chemistry or equivalent laboratory experience.

* 5 plus years laboratory experience.

* Knowledge and ability to operate FTIR, LC, GC & other related petrochemical lab equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate as normally based in an office. Some of the work may be required in the operating units which can require usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs and elevators. Travel including air travel or auto travel may occasionally be requited