Manager Clinical Lab

Natera•San Carlos, CA

3d•$123,400 - $185,200

About The Position

The Manager Clinical Lab works closely with the Senior Manager to ensure company, department, and team goals are met. The role oversees team-specific laboratory operations, monitors workflow and production metrics, and uses those metrics to improve efficiency, quality, and costs. The manager plans staffing and equipment needs, ensures tests follow approved procedures, supports quality and regulatory compliance, and guides the transition of automation and test improvements into production. The position also leads and develops employees, manages training and performance reviews, addresses employee issues in collaboration with the Senior Manager or Human Resources, and meets regularly with Supervisors to discuss goals and progress. The manager coordinates departmental activities and resources, provides guidance within company policies, recommends policy and procedure changes, and maintains a safe, organized, and efficient work area. Natera describes itself as a global leader in cell-free DNA testing focused on oncology, women’s health, and organ health. The company’s mission is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of standard care.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, a related field, or equivalent.
At least 6 years of experience in a clinical laboratory environment.
Eligibility for delegation as both a CAP General Supervisor and NYSDOH supervisor.
Current California State CLS or CGMBS (Clinical Genetics Molecular Biologist Scientist) license.
Exceptional multitasking, organizational, and communication skills.
Excellent computer skills, including MS Excel.
Attention to detail and ability to organize and prioritize.
Strong problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently as a self-starter and comfortably with teams at all levels.
Ability to build and manage a high-performing group of engaged and motivated employees.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of molecular diagnostics.

Responsibilities

Work with the Senior Manager to ensure company, department, and team goals are met.
Monitor workflow and ensure production goals and deadlines, including TAT and SLA, are achieved.
Plan for future staffing and equipment needs and scale resources appropriately.
Gather and monitor metrics on production deadlines, efficiency, scrap waste, and error rates.
Monitor quality control and assurance programs, test results, and equipment, when applicable.
Use metrics to guide decisions and implement changes such as cost reduction and quality improvement.
Maintain sufficient staffing to meet production goals by driving interviews and managing employee PTO and overtime when necessary.
Lead continuous improvement projects to refine laboratory processes.
Oversee team-specific laboratory operations and serve as the go-to person for process and product knowledge when the Senior Manager is absent.
Ensure automation and test improvements or additions transition seamlessly into production workflows.
Analyze and troubleshoot laboratory processing errors and recommend next steps to the lab director, scientists, and statisticians as needed.
Support Supervisors with closing out NCRs.
Initiate and close out CAPAs in a timely manner.
Ensure departmental laboratory compliance with regulatory bodies and that tests are performed according to approved procedures.
Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient work area.
Coordinate with interdepartmental teams, including OPS, Accessioning, Engineering, Stats, R&D, and Support.
Handle employee complaints and disciplinary matters, collaborating with the Senior Manager and/or Human Resources as appropriate.
Explain the rationale for instructions, processes, and changes, and explain when proposed ideas cannot be implemented effectively.
Meet regularly with Supervisors to discuss goals and progress.
Conduct performance reviews for direct reports and oversee reviews for the entire staff.
Plan and lead team meetings.
Develop employees through learning, cross-training, and new challenges.
Recognize and reward talent through merit reviews, promotions, and recognition programs.
Adhere to departmental expectations and manage the training program for direct reports.
Notify management of requirements for tools and supplies.
Determine how to use resources to meet schedules and goals based on assigned objectives.
Guide subordinates within established company policies.
Recommend policy changes and establish procedures affecting the immediate organization.
Coordinate activities for a section or department and be responsible for results, including costs, methods, and staffing.