Laboratory Manager

Job Description

Reporting to the director of laboratory operations, the laboratory manager independently performs a full range of routine and specialized procedures in the pathology laboratory, such as applying histopathology techniques and broad scientific principles from the fields of biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology; acting as a technical resource for troubleshooting; using independent judgment and resources to resolve concerns; and managing, training, and directing laboratory staff.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare sections of human tissue in a variety of sizes and types (including accessioning, grossing, fixation, processing, embedding, sectioning, and a variety of staining processes)
• Perform digital scanning of all prepared slides
• Maintain accurate records
• Adhere to the laboratory’s quality-control policies, document all quality-control activities, and maintain a clean and well-organized work area
• Maintain proficiency and training requirements
• Ensure compliance with all local, federal, and CLIA regulations
• Participate in inventory management, special projects, and other duties as assigned by management
• Assist in staff development and training
• Provide leadership in planning, executing, and resolving various initiatives within the laboratory
• Staff and manage a team of histology technicians and laboratory assistants
• Continuously monitor and evaluate histology processes and protocols, making changes as needed to ensure optimal quality, productivity, and consistency
• Perform active maintenance/upkeep of CLIA documentation and records (including supervising/verifying completion of daily records and tracking documents) and preparation for CAP and CLIA inspections
• Communicate with pathologists regarding laboratory issues and client needs and respond quickly and efficiently to concerns/feedback regarding histology within the lab
• Track and monitor laboratory quality indicators
• Answer technical questions from pathologists and clients regarding lab processes and histology workflows
• Independently and proactively identify problems in the laboratory and institute appropriate corrective actions
• Ensure operational compliance with the laboratory’s SOPs and quality management systems
• Oversee departmental training
• Establish and execute goals in improving laboratory performance through defined quarterly KPIs
• Perform histology employee performance evaluations
• Achieve budget profitability objectives and manage laboratory operational budget
• Maintain appropriate standards to meet all licensing and regulatory requirements and uphold company policies and integrity
• Exercise all laboratory safety precautions and adhere to lab procedures as stated in procedure manuals

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to work well independently and in a team environment
• High integrity, discipline, and detail-oriented mindset
• Time management skills to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Basic computer competency

Minimum Licensure/Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, histology, chemistry, or another related field of study
• Seven or more years of experience in the histology field
• Five or more years of experience in managing laboratory personnel
• Current HT or HLT certification (or meets all requirements to obtain certification)