Laboratory Manager

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of laboratory operations, ensuring high-quality and accurate laboratory testing, maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, and supervising laboratory staff in a Critical Access Hospital. The role involves collaborating with physicians and medical staff to support patient care through diagnostic testing and laboratory services.

Typical Schedule

Monday thru Friday - daytime hours (the lab is staffed 24/7/365 so the manager will need to occasionally work hours outside of the typical schedule)

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Experience: 2 - 4 years of experience in laboratory management in a high complexity testing laboratory.
• Certifications: Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or Medical Technologist (MT) through ASCP or equivalent; additional certifications (e.g., Laboratory Management) preferred.

Responsibilities include:

• Supervise Laboratory Operations: Manage day-to-day activities of the laboratory, including scheduling, staffing, workflow, and inventory management.
• Quality Control & Compliance: Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., CLIA, COLA, OSHA) and accreditation standards. Implement and monitor quality control procedures to ensure accurate and timely test results.
• Staff Management: Recruit, train, and supervise laboratory technicians, technologists, and phlebotomists. Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship, and ensure proper performance evaluations and training are conducted.
• Budget and Financial Management: Develop and manage the laboratory budget, control costs, and ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining high standards of patient care.
• Clinical Support & Consultation: Collaborate with physicians and medical staff to support accurate diagnosis and treatment decisions. Provide guidance on lab tests and procedures.
• Equipment Management: Oversee the maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment. Ensure that all instruments are properly serviced and that any equipment malfunctions are promptly addressed.
• Policy Development & Implementation: Develop, implement, and review laboratory policies and procedures. Ensure that all procedures are in line with best practices, regulatory guidelines, and hospital protocols.
• Safety and Infection Control: Ensure the laboratory environment adheres to safety and infection control policies, minimizing hazards for patients and staff.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Monitor laboratory test results, prepare reports, and provide analytical support for patient care. Evaluate laboratory performance and report findings to hospital leadership.
• Collaboration with Other Departments: Work closely with other hospital departments, such as Radiology and Emergency, to coordinate patient care and ensure efficient use of resources.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrates OMC's behavioral standards and values in daily work.
• Strong leadership and supervisory abilities.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
• Proficiency in laboratory management software and data analysis.
• Ability to ensure regulatory compliance and quality control.
• Strong communication skills for interacting with staff, physicians, and patients.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move laboratory materials and supplies.
• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity for handling laboratory instruments.

Work Environment:

• The Laboratory Manager will work in a hospital laboratory setting, which may involve exposure to chemicals, biological materials, and infectious agents. Safety protocols and protective equipment are provided to ensure a safe work environment.