Laboratory Training Specialist- Reference Lab

Training Specialist

Louisville Lab

The Training Specialist will drive the development and delivery of high-quality technical and non-technical laboratory training programs for ZRL colleagues, ensuring content is tailored to evolving operational, quality and customer needs. This role is responsible for building and maintaining a comprehensive training and competency tracking system, leveraging tools such as MediaLab to track and monitor staff progress, project manage training & competency assessments, and generate management reports. By regularly analyzing training data and collaborating with site leaders, the specialist ensures all personnel remain knowledgeable, up to date, and fully compliant with organizational training requirements. The specialist also drives continuous improvement by updating curricula, incorporating feedback, and supporting the professional growth of both trainers and staff.

Job Duties

• Design, implement, and continuously improve comprehensive technical and non-technical training programs and materials (eLearning, workshops) based on operational needs and organizational requirements.
• Oversee the competency assessment program, ensuring timely and effective assessments, documentation, and follow-up for all laboratory staff.
• Develop and manage a robust tracking system (within MediaLab) to assign, record, and monitor training and competency assessments. Ensure all staff records are current, accurate, and audit-ready.
• Deliver training directly and lead "train-the-trainer" initiatives to ensure consistency, standardization and quality across all sites. Mentor and support site trainers.
• Prepare and present regular reports and dashboards on training and competency status for management. Communicate proactively with staff and leadership about training requirements, schedules, and progress.
• Gather feedback, review outcomes, and update training materials and processes to maintain program effectiveness and relevance.

Education/Experience

Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology (MT), Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), or equivalent years of education and experience working in a technical capacity in veterinary and/or human clinical laboratory

Minimum 5 years' experience in a veterinary or human clinical laboratory, with at least 3 years of bench experience

Extensive experience developing and delivering training and competency assessments for laboratory professionals

Experience implementing and managing training tracking systems (e.g., LMS)

MT/MLS (ASCP) or equivalent certification (preferred)

Experience covering multiple clinical laboratory specialties and departments desired (Chemistry, Hematology, Parasitology, Microbiology, Histology, Accessioning, Sendouts, etc)

Technical Skills Required

Deep knowledge of laboratory operations, instrumentation, and quality systems

Proficiency in developing and delivering training materials

Proficiency with training and competency tracking systems (LMS), experience with MediaLab preferred.

Strong organizational and data management skills

Excellent communications skills

Effective instructional and presentation skills.

Strong collaboration and teamwork, with the ability to help others develop.

Ability to indirectly lead and influence colleagues.

Skilled at coaching and providing constructive feedback.

Demonstrated skill in establishing strong working relationships and exhibiting natural leadership qualities.

Physical Position Requirements

100% onsite at a Reference Lab

Able to work for extended periods on a computer and tolerate computer screens.

Irregular hours (early morning) up to 10%.

Site visits also include standing and/or walking for extended periods of time.

Primarily office-based with visits to regional laboratories.

Ability to travel regionally up to 30%.