Clinical Laboratory Scientist - Laboratory Operations Manager - Gardena, CA

Clinical Laboratory Scientist - Laboratory Operations Manager - Gardena, CA

We are seeking a Laboratory Operations Manager to join our team. This role is ideal for someone passionate about leading people and optimizing laboratory operations. Reporting to the Laboratory Director, you will oversee daily operations, manage technical staff, ensure quality control, and maintain regulatory compliance while optimizing operational efficiency.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Oversee daily laboratory operations, workflow, and staff scheduling to ensure efficient service delivery and timely test turnaround. Follow up on send-out tests and ensure proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Review and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintain all necessary documentation for accreditation and compliance.
• Manage direct reports, including technical and support staff, through training, competency assessments, performance evaluations, and corrective actions while fostering a positive work environment.
• Monitor and optimize workflow, implement process improvements, and lead continuous quality improvement initiatives.
• Manage laboratory supply inventory, equipment maintenance, and vendor relations, including contract negotiations, cost control, and budget monitoring.
• Evaluate and implement new testing procedures, methodologies, and technologies.
• Analyze laboratory data, prepare operational and performance reports, track key metrics, and participate in leadership meetings. This may include creating ad-hoc reports, managing testing statistics, mapping and integrating codes, and making final testing remarks.
• Maintain and troubleshoot the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, OSHA, HIPAA, and other regulatory standards.
• Implement and monitor quality control and assurance programs to meet regulatory standards (e.g., CAP, CLIA, Joint Commission), ensure safety protocols are followed, and address any deficiencies.
• Collaborate with physicians, healthcare providers, and other departments to support patient care and client services, including handling customer service issues.
• Serve as a liaison between the laboratory and external stakeholders, including clients, business partners, hospital departments, vendors, and auditors.
• Act as a resource for technical and administrative issues, resolving complex problems, and implementing new technical procedures.
• Identify and implement performance improvement projects and contribute to the development and validation of new assays and procedures.
• Support both B2B and B2C operations, including coordination of individual specimen/package processing.
• Stay up-to-date with health, safety, and accreditation standards and participate in audits to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

• Current state licensure where applicable is required.
• Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT/MLS) from ASCP or equivalent organization.
• Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related field required; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of CLIA clinical laboratory experience with at least 3 years in a supervisory role managing direct reports.
• Thorough knowledge of CLIA regulations, laboratory safety practices, and quality control procedures.
• Strong operational management skills combined with in-depth knowledge of clinical laboratory procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent leadership abilities, strong problem-solving skills, and proficiency with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS).
• Strong attention to detail.
• Must be able to work on-site in our Gardena laboratory/office.

License & Certification Requirements

• Clinical Laboratory Scientist License (Required)

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven experience in leadership or people management, with a track record of developing and retaining talent.
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy.
• Bilingual fluency in Korean (spoken and written) is preferred, but not required.

Schedule

• Full-time, Monday to Friday
• Some laboratory positions may require weekend work on a rotating schedule

Perks & Benefits

• Health, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with up to 4% matching
• Paid vacation and sick time-off
• Paid holidays
• Flexible spending account