Job at a glance
Job Title: Lead Laboratory Technician Job Description The Lead Laboratory Technician provides technical leadership and hands-on support in a high-volume laboratory environment, overseeing diagnostic, clinical, and research testing using both newly installed and existing predicate equipment. This role leads a team of laboratory technicians, coordinates daily testing activities across multiple shifts, and ensures strict adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
The Lead Laboratory Technician serves as the primary point of contact between the laboratory team and client stakeholders, playing a key role in study execution, data integrity, process improvement, and achievement of project timelines. Responsibilities Lead and coordinate the daily activities of laboratory technicians supporting diagnostic, clinical, and research testing operations. Train, mentor, and monitor team members on laboratory procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards.
Manage scheduling and staffing assignments across multiple shifts to ensure adequate coverage and efficient workflow. Ensure compliance with site training requirements, laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality policies. Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement within the laboratory. Perform diagnostic, clinical, and research laboratory testing using both new and predicate testing equipment.
Prepare, process, and analyze biological samples, ensuring accurate review, interpretation, and documentation of test results. Operate, calibrate, maintain, validate, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and equipment. Investigate testing discrepancies and equipment issues, documenting findings and escalating concerns as appropriate. Manage laboratory reagents, consumables, and inventory to support uninterrupted testing operations.
Maintain accurate records, test documentation, and data integrity in accordance with quality and regulatory requirements. Support quality initiatives, internal and external audits, and instrument validation activities. Collaborate with laboratory personnel and stakeholders to meet testing timelines, turnaround times, and project objectives. Provide technical support and recommendations to improve laboratory processes, efficiency, and testing performance.
Provide regular project updates and communicate findings and progress to client stakeholders. Assist with current-state assessments, development of action plans, project timelines, and performance metrics. Identify workflow inefficiencies and recommend and support implementation of process improvements. Support additional testing activities, special projects, and continuous improvement initiatives as needed.
Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Science, Biotechnology, or a related scientific field. At least 3 years of laboratory experience in a clinical, diagnostic, research, analytical, or testing environment. Experience working in regulated environments and following SOPs, quality standards, and compliance requirements. Hands-on experience operating, maintaining, calibrating, validating, and troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation and automated testing systems.
Prior experience providing leadership, mentoring, or coordination for laboratory personnel. Strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with laboratory staff and stakeholders. Ability to work independently, stay self-motivated, and prioritize tasks effectively. High attention to detail with strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Adaptability and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Flexibility to support 2nd shift, 3rd shift, weekend work, and holiday coverage as needed. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience working with human biological specimens, including blood banking, donor testing, or transfusion medicine. Experience with instrument validation, method c