Laboratory Operations Specialist

LABTECH DIAGNOSTICS•San Antonio, TX

About The Position

The Laboratory Operations Specialist oversees the daily administrative and operational functions of the clinical laboratory, ensuring efficient workflow, high-quality service delivery, regulatory compliance, and staff coordination. This role works closely with the Laboratory Medical Director and technical leadership to support staffing, client services, process improvement, and overall laboratory performance while maintaining compliance with accreditation and regulatory standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP, OSHA, HIPAA).

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree required
Knowledge of healthcare systems, clinical laboratory operations, and regulatory requirements
Prior clinical laboratory experience preferred
Ability to perform OSHA Category 1 tasks involving exposure to blood and bodily fluids
Proficient in computer systems and laboratory information systems (LIS)
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
Team leadership and collaboration
Organizational and time management skills
Operational and technical competency
Perform daily tasks involving walking, standing, sitting, and bending

Responsibilities

Coordinates daily laboratory operations to ensure efficient workflow and timely, accurate testing across all departments
Supports the Lab Supervisor/Manager and staff with performance evaluations, team development, and conflict resolution
Serves as a key point of contact for operational and client-related issues, ensuring timely and professional resolution
Oversee specimen workflow and turnaround time, identifying and addressing bottlenecks in collaboration with leadership
Collaborate with the QA department to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements (CLIA, CAP, OSHA, HIPAA) and maintain continuous inspection readiness
Monitor and support quality initiatives, including internal audits, QC/QA reviews, and proficiency testing follow-up
Document and review incidents, corrective actions, and performance deviations to support continuous improvement and compliance
Work with the Lab Supervisor/Manager to ensure proper documentation and tracking of equipment maintenance, calibration, and functionality
Collaborate with the QA team and Laboratory Medical Director on validation of new equipment, methodologies, and updates to standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Coordinate onboarding and training of new employees in collaboration with the Lab Supervisor/Manager and ensure ongoing competency and continuing education compliance
Assist in managing performance concerns and disciplinary actions in collaboration with laboratory leadership and HR
Partner with the Lab Supervisor to manage inventory levels and prevent shortages or overstock
Review and analyze operational metrics (e.g., turnaround time, workload trends) to identify inefficiencies and improve workflow
Lead or support operational improvement initiatives and special projects (e.g., new test implementation, equipment installations, LIS updates)
Act as a liaison between laboratory staff, leadership, IT, QA/compliance teams, logistics, and clinical stakeholders to ensure effective communication and coordination
Support client communication related to operational changes, service issues, and workflow alignment with client expectations
Promote a safe work environment and ensure adherence to PPE use and OSHA-compliant practices
Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement aligned with organizational goals
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by senior leadership or the Laboratory Medical Director.