Softlines Operation Supervisor at SGS — Fairfield, NJ

POSITION SUMMARY

The Softlines Opertions Supervisor guides day-to-day laboratory operations, ensuring consistency in processes and team alignment. This role oversees task execution, supports staff development, and maintains operational stability. The Supervisor plays a key role in advancing departmental goals through effective oversight.

JOB FUNCTIONS

• Works in close coordination with the Laboratory Manager/director to managesstaff schedules and assignments for the specific department/team
• Supervises and mentor laboratory staff (Technicians, Analysts, Assistants)
• Ensures tasks are completed efficiently, accurate, and within established turnaround times
• Monitors and enforces strict adherence to the established Quality Management system, the  quality control procedures , standard test methodologies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Provide guidance and support in troubleshooting technical problems and ensuring process continuity
• Ensure accurate documentation of test results, maintain data integrity, and oversee proper recordkeeping
• Conduct performance reviews for direct reports
• Approves timecards and time off requests for direct reports.
• Manages inventory levels and supports the procurement of supplies and services for the operation.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives
• Supports Operation partners such as Client Services  and  Report writing teams and other internal customers, providing guidance and support as required.
• Support the development of new tests and services
• Performs other duties as required

LEADERSHIP/SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides guidance and/or leadership to others, including indirect reports, peers, or managers
• Assigns daily tasks, monitors performance, provides on-the-job training, offers feedback, and supports onboarding of new staff. Leads team meetings, supports conflict resolution, and ensures alignment with departmental goals.
• Has hiring and terminating responsibilities
• Supervises others

JOB COMPLEXITY

• The SL Operations  Supervisors manages a wide range of operational and technical responsibilities that require sound judgment and coordination across multiple teams. The role involves balancing daily workflow demands, resolving unexpected issues, and ensuring consistent adherence to laboratory protocols  Tasks often require interpreting policies, adjusting procedures, and making decisions that affect both short-term efficiency and long-term quality outcomes. The Supervisor must navigate competing priorities, support staff development, and maintain alignment with organizational standards while ensuring timely and accurate sample analysis.

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

• Decisions made by the SL Operations  Supervisor have a direct impact on laboratory performance, data quality, and team efficiency. The Supervisor, in coordination with the Laboratory Manage, is responsible for resolving operational issues, approving procedural adjustments, and ensuring compliance with safety and reporting standards. Errors in judgment, such as overlooking equipment failures, misallocating resources, or failing to escalate critical issues, can result in delays, compromised data integrity, and client dissatisfaction. Timely and informed decision making is essential to maintaining workflow continuity and upholding the credibility of laboratory operations.

ANALYTICAL THINKING/PROBLEM SOLVING

• The Laboratory Supervisor applies sound analytical judgment to resolve operational challenges, assess data quality, and support continuous improvement. This role involves reviewing complex reports, identifying patterns in testing outcomes, and guiding staff through troubleshooting procedures. The Supervisor evaluates root causes of recurring issues, recommends procedural adjustments, and ensures that corrective actions are implemented effectively. Strong problem-solving skills are essential to maintaining workflow efficiency, supporting client deliverables, and upholding laboratory standards.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Post-secondary education in a scientific discipline (e.g., Associate Degree in the U.S. or College Diploma in Canada), or an equivalent combination of education and experience - Required
• Bachelor's Degree in a scientific discipline            Preferred
• At least 5 years of relevant Textile testing and laboratory supervision.

ADDITIONAL KSAS

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

EQUIPMENT

• This job operates in a laboratory environment. This role routinely uses standard laboratory instrumentation and equipment.

Compensation

The expected salary for this position is $90,000 per year.  This range represents the minimum and maximum base salary we reasonably expect to pay for this role. Actual compensation within the range will depend on skills, experience, and qualifications.

Our Benefits

We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role.

• Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, employee assistance programs.
• Wealth: In addition to base pay, we offer 401(k) with company match (immediate vesting upon enrollment).
• Happiness:
• Professional Growth: Online training courses, virtual and classroom development experiences, tuition reimbursement program
• Work-Life Balance: Paid-time off and family leave

In compliance with applicable state and local pay transparency laws, we provide clear and equitable compensation information for all applicants.

Position anticipated to close August 3, 2026.

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 as 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 callback.  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.