The Director of Laboratory provides strategic leadership, oversight, and direction for all clinical and/or research laboratory operations. This role ensures quality standards, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and fosters innovation while supporting the organization’s mission and goals.
Provide leadership and management for all laboratory departments (clinical, pathology, microbiology, molecular, or research labs depending on scope).
Develop and implement laboratory policies, procedures, and quality assurance programs in compliance with CLIA, CAP, COLA, OSHA, and other regulatory standards.
Oversee daily operations including testing, reporting, staffing, budgeting, and procurement.
Ensure accurate and timely delivery of laboratory results to support patient care and clinical decision-making.
Collaborate with physicians, clinicians, and researchers to support diagnostic and research needs.
Lead recruitment, training, and performance management of laboratory staff.
Implement and maintain laboratory information systems (LIS) and ensure integration with hospital/clinical systems.
Monitor financial performance, manage budgets, and optimize resource utilization.
Drive innovation by evaluating and implementing new laboratory technologies, automation, and methodologies.
Represent laboratory leadership in hospital administration, regulatory inspections, and executive meetings.
Master’s or Doctoral degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Pathology, Biology, Chemistry, or related field.
Certification such as ASCP, MLS(ASCP), or equivalent preferred.
10+ years of laboratory experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership/management role.
In-depth knowledge of laboratory operations, clinical testing, quality management, and regulatory requirements.
Strong financial management and budgetary skills.
Strategic leadership and organizational management.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills across clinical and administrative teams.
Expertise in laboratory technologies and emerging diagnostic trends.
Ability to lead in high-pressure, regulated healthcare environments.
Hospital, healthcare system, academic medical center, or independent diagnostic/research laboratory.
Office and laboratory-based with frequent cross-department interaction.
May require availability during off-hours for emergencies or operational oversight.