Deputy Cantonal Chemist, Head of Laboratories and Water Inspection

As Deputy Cantonal Chemist, you hold a key position within the Consumer Office (OFCO), attached to the Department of Agriculture, Sustainability, Climate and Digital Affairs. A true partner to the Cantonal Chemist, you assist in managing the missions to protect consumer health and act as deputy in the operational and strategic leadership of the office. You participate in supervising the teams linked to the position, coordinate complex and cross-cutting files, and actively contribute to risk management as well as institutional decisions. As a proactive contributor, you support the evolution of services, develop synergies, and embed your actions in a continuous improvement approach. We are looking for a dynamic, committed individual ready to meet the challenges of a constantly evolving environment.

• Assist the Cantonal Chemist in the Office's strategy and participate in the transversal management of the Office as a member of the management team and Deputy Cantonal Chemist.
• Lead the various areas of the Laboratories and Water Inspection division, ensure management and oversee human and financial resources.
• Handle decision reports in accordance with current cantonal and federal legal provisions. Implement cantonal and federal policies.
• Serve as the principal scientific contact in external relations. Represent the Office at cantonal and inter-cantonal Commissions.
• Support the Cantonal Chemist in managing the quality management system (QMS) while meeting system requirements and ensuring coherence with laboratory operations.

For further information, please consult the job description HERE or contact Ms Lucie Marie Catiau, Head of Office and Cantonal Chemist, by email at lucie.catiau@vd.ch or by phone at 021 316 41 80.

• Doctorate in sciences
• Federal diploma in official food control (DCAl) and federal diploma in management of official food control (DDCAl) - possibility to complete these trainings during the first two years of employment
• Recognised training and/or experience in management
• Good knowledge of German and English
• Strong interest in public service, good knowledge of its functioning as well as cantonal and federal structures
• Ease in communication, planning and organisation
• High work capacity, reliability, rigour, availability
• Sense of responsibility and public service ethics
• Global vision and sense of perspective
• Presence in the laboratory in case of crises (poisoning, etc.)
• Driving licence and availability of private vehicle for professional travel

To learn more about our benefits, visit our Employer State page.