Environmental Laboratory Supervisor

To be considered for this position you must complete the state application and attach all required documents through the Montana State Careers site at 

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity within the Public Health and Safety Division in Helena.

The Public Health Laboratory and the state Environmental Laboratory partner in the prevention, and control of disease and the improvement of community health by providing quality testing and consultation in support of disease assessment, prevention, and control. The Laboratories provide these services to federal and state agencies, hospitals, clinics and physicians, county health departments, clinical and environmental laboratories, public water supply operators, and the general public.

The Environmental Laboratory Section Supervisor position oversees the following Public Health Laboratory's systems/programs: water/environmental chemistry testing, microbiological testing, and drinking water laboratory certification. This position partners with the Laboratory Services Bureau Chief to develop policies, processes, and strategies for achieving technical, financial, regulatory, and quality objectives within these programs. This position also interfaces with other section supervisors and laboratory staff, as well as external partners, to achieve bureau and division goals. This position may also be required to represent the bureau with various organizations and act on behalf of the Laboratory Services Bureau Chief as assigned. The position reports to the Laboratory Services Bureau Chief and is responsible for direct supervision of 4-5 employees.

Why Join DPHHS

Our mission at DPHHS is serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. By joining our department, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents.

The State of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In addition, DPHHS is the largest state agency with a wide range of advancement opportunities whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience.

Qualifications for this Career Opportunity

• Knowledge of environmental laboratory management principles and practices.

• Critical thinking and analytical skills.

• Ability to understand and manage budgets to meet organizational goals.

• Meet minimum qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related scientific field such as environmental health or microbiology. Master's degree in chemistry, public health, or a related discipline preferred.

  • Five years of environmental laboratory experience.

  • Two years of experience in a supervisory role with direct supervision of clinical laboratory staff is preferred.

  • Other combinations of related education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

How to Apply

To be considered for a DPHHS position, submit the following required documents with your application on the State of Montana Careers website. When submitting the required documents, you must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploaded correctly to your application for this position.

• Cover Letter

• Resume

• References

Successful applicants will be subject to background checks relevant to the position and must pass reference checks before an offer will be extended. DPHHS is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a copy of the full job description or if you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, contact DPHHS Human Resources listed below.

Additional Information

This position may be eligible for a statutory 2.5%25 an hour base pay increase effective July 1, 2026.