Agronomy Lab Shift Lead (Lab Operations / Team Lead)

Agronomy Lab Shift Lead (Lab Operations / Team Lead) 3.4 3.4 out of 5 stars 710 Commerce Way, Watertown, WI 53094 From $20 an hour - Full-time Rock River Laboratory 15 reviews From $20 an hour - Full-time Position Overview We are hiring an Agronomy Shift Lead to help manage daily operations in a fast-paced agricultural laboratory. This role is ideal for someone with experience in production, manufacturing, or lab operations, who is ready to step into a hands-on supervisory position. You will play a key role in ensuring smooth workflow, maintaining quality standards, and supporting seasonal staff during peak soil and plant tissue testing seasons. Key Responsibilities Supervise and coordinate soil sample intake operations (spring & fall), including: Receiving, organizing, and tracking incoming samples Operating and loading drying ovens Assigning and staging samples for processing Troubleshooting data entry issues to prevent workflow delays Scanning and labeling submission sheets Lead plant tissue sample processing (summer), including: Intake, labeling, chopping, and drying samples Provide leadership across multiple lab areas, including: Sample preparation and processing workflows Supporting and directing seasonal employees Step into critical lab roles (e.g., grinding, extraction) as needed Maintain high standards for accuracy, efficiency, and turnaround time

Schedule Peak Seasons:

50-60 hours/week (spring, summer, fall)

Off-Season:

30-40 hours/week Overtime available and expected during busy periods

Pay & Benefits Starting Pay:

$20/hour

Overtime Pay:

1.5x hourly rate (100-150 hours/year typical)

Benefits Include:

Health, dental, vision, retirement savings, and more Paid time off (PTO) Paid holidays Stable, year-round employment with seasonal variety Hands-on training and skill development Team-oriented work environment Qualifications Experience in production, manufacturing, lab operations, agriculture, or food service leadership preferred Strong organizational and problem-solving skills Ability to work independently and lead a team Comfortable working in a fast-paced, physically active environment Ability to lift 40 lbs. Willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons College degree is a plus, but not required Preferred Skills Team leadership / shift supervision Production or operations management Quality control and process improvement Data entry and workflow coordination Agricultural or lab experience (a plus)

Pay:

From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Safety equipment provided Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person