This qualification reflects the role of workers who supervise and/or manage laboratory operations within a work area or project team. Job roles include laboratory supervisors, laboratory managers, senior technicians and similar personnel.

These individuals are generally responsible for the planning, coordination, quality assurance, recording and reporting of laboratory outputs within their section. This requires significant judgement about work sequences, and choice of appropriate technology and procedures to ensure that products and services meet customer expectations and are provided safely and efficiently in keeping with the enterprise business plan. Under broad direction from scientists/medical staff/engineers, they accept responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the work/functional area.

They are often responsible for the effective implementation of operational policies and the technical training of personnel in their work area. They also contribute significantly to the development of these policies through the application of specialised technical knowledge.

Work involves multiple and competing demands and frequent interruptions. Immediate decisions are often required. They must be adaptable to deal with the demands brought about by situations involving changes in technology, regularly changing priorities and the demands of clients, suppliers or contractors.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.