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Position Summary:

The Laboratory Director is responsible for the overall management, strategic direction, and operational oversight of the clinical and pathology laboratory services. This role ensures compliance with all regulatory and accreditation standards, maintains high-quality patient care, and fosters a collaborative environment among laboratory staff, physicians, and administrative leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

A. Pathology and General Laboratory Operations

+ Maintain departmental records and reports; collect and analyze statistical data for regulatory compliance (OSHA, CLIA, JCAHO, HCFA, CAP).

+ Direct daily operations of the clinical/pathology lab to meet diagnostic needs and ensure quality patient care.

+ Oversee client relations, including reference lab test processing, billing, and charging.

+ Serve as the primary liaison between the lab and internal/external stakeholders, including regular meetings with pathologists and administration.

+ Ensure proper maintenance of lab equipment and inventory of supplies.

+ Schedule and coordinate technical and non-technical staff.

+ Promote professional development through education, workshops, and literature.

+ Recommend improvements and reorganizations to the VP and Medical Director.

+ Monitor and respond to regulatory changes to maintain compliance.

+ Perform technical duties as needed to support staffing levels.

B. Departmental Leadership and Management

+ Develop and implement departmental goals, policies, and procedures.

+ Lead all aspects of personnel management: hiring, training, evaluation, and termination.

+ Plan and support staff professional development and annual education requirements.

+ Ensure adequate staffing and communicate schedules effectively.

+ Foster a collaborative and inclusive decision-making environment.

C. Physician and Interdepartmental Relations

+ Maintain positive relationships with physicians and act as a liaison between the lab and medical community.

+ Communicate lab activities and updates to physicians and physician offices.

D. Organizational Leadership

+ Demonstrate adaptability, decisiveness, and effective communication.

+ Ensure timely and thorough completion of staff assignments.

+ Conduct regular staff meetings and performance evaluations.

+ Address disciplinary matters in accordance with policy.

+ Recognize and reward outstanding staff performance.

E. Regulatory Compliance and Accreditation

+ Ensure compliance with The Joint Commission, the College of American Pathologists, and other regulatory bodies.

+ Promote safety, infection control, and emergency preparedness.

+ Maintain current knowledge of legal and compliance issues affecting the lab.

F. Strategic Integration and Collaboration

+ Align departmental goals with the organization’s mission and strategic plan.

+ Collaborate with other departments to improve services and patient outcomes.

+ Represent the lab in internal and external meetings and committees.

G. Performance Improvement and Customer Satisfaction

+ Develop and monitor performance improvement initiatives.

+ Promote a culture of service excellence and patient-centered care.

+ Address and resolve customer concerns promptly and professionally.

H. Budget and Resource Management

+ Develop and manage the departmental operating and capital budgets.

+ Monitor expenses, staffing levels, and resource utilization.

+ Respond to financial reports and adjust operations as needed.

I. Professional Development

+ Participate in continuing education and professional organizations.

+ Share knowledge gained from workshops and training with the team.

+ Set and pursue professional development goals.

Qualifications:

+ Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related field (Master’s preferred).

+ ASCP or equivalent certification required.

+ Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive laboratory leadership experience.

+ In-depth knowledge of laboratory operations, regulatory standards, and quality assurance.

+ Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.