Lead Embryologist

Position Summary

The Lead Embryologist is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the animal IVF laboratory and performing advanced embryology procedures for bovine in vitro fertilization and embryo production. This role combines technical expertise in oocyte searching, fertilization, embryo culture, grading, and cryopreservation with leadership responsibilities to ensure operational excellence and high-quality reproductive outcomes.

The Lead Embryologist will supervise laboratory personnel, maintain laboratory standards and protocols, and help drive innovation, efficiency, and consistency throughout all laboratory operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The duties listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required:

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise, train, and mentor embryologists, technicians, and laboratory assistants.

• Assign daily laboratory responsibilities and monitor team performance.

• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement.

• Assist with onboarding and training of new laboratory staff.

Laboratory Operations

• Perform all aspects of bovine embryology procedures

• Ensure accurate and timely documentation of laboratory procedures, data, and production
  reports.

• Monitor laboratory performance and maintain high-quality control standards.

• Maintain laboratory equipment, consumables, inventory, and supplies.

• Assist in troubleshooting laboratory issues and optimizing production efficiency.

• Collaborate with veterinarians, reproductive technicians, and management to support operational goals and client success.

Required Skills & Experience

• Strong passion for bovine reproduction and reproductive biotechnology.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

• Ability to work efficiently in a high-performance, fast-paced laboratory environment.

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to lead and motivate laboratory personnel while maintaining high operational standards.

• Flexibility to work occasional weekends, extended hours, and travel when operationally necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Animal Science, Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or related field.

• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in animal IVF or embryology procedures (cattle preferred).

• Experience managing or supervising laboratory personnel.

• Familiarity with laboratory quality control systems and operational management.

Work Environment & Requirements

• Primarily laboratory-based work in an animal IVF production environment.

• Requires prolonged periods of microscope work and laboratory procedures.

• Exposure to biological materials, liquid nitrogen, and laboratory chemicals.

• Ability to maintain precision and focus in a fast-paced production setting.

• Flexibility for occasional travel and extended work hours during peak production periods.

Other Duties

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned to meet operational needs and support company growth.

Compensation & Benefits

• Benefits – 401K, health insurance, paid time-off
  
• Salary – Starting salary will be determined based on experience, technical competency, and demonstrated IVF/embryology skills