Specimen Processing Supervisor

Quest Diagnostics•Tampa, FL

About The Position

The Specimen Processing Supervisor oversees daily functions within the Specimen Processing department, which may include Specimen Processing, Test in Question/Problem Resolution, Imaging/Microfilming, and some Client Service functions. The supervisor is responsible for department operations, compliance and competency requirements, employee training, quality, productivity, safety, and maintaining an effective professional work environment. The role works with technical departments and internal and external customers to resolve problems and support continuous improvement. The supervisor leads and develops staff, manages scheduling and coverage, participates in hiring, and monitors employee performance. The position also oversees documentation, procedures, workflow, inventory, specimen integrity, and applicable shipping activities. It supports fiscal responsibility, process improvement, and business objectives, and requires the ability to adjust the schedule to meet business needs, potentially including extended hours.

Requirements

Internal candidates must have at least two years of experience in a Group Leader or related role.
Associate degree preferred; at least a high school diploma or equivalent is required for a laboratory releasing results for California work under the stated CLIA-related code.
PC skills and proficiency with MS Office applications.
Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to interact effectively with internal and external customers.
Ability to manage concerns of clients, technical departments, and employees professionally.
Ability to monitor and provide a safe work environment, prepare incident reports, and implement preventative measures.
Ability to work in a biohazard environment while practicing good safety habits.
Ability to handle multiple tasks in a production environment and maintain the mental alertness and energy needed to perform the job.
Professional conduct at all times.
Ability to adjust schedule to meet business requirements, which may include extended hours.

Nice To Haves

Five years of laboratory experience.
Medical or production background.
Previous people leadership experience.
Knowledge of systems tools such as COGNOS, Oracle, EMPower, and Kronos.
Associate degree.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily department operations, including Specimen Processing and, where applicable, Imaging/Microfilming, Test in Question, Problem Resolution, and Client Service functions.
Oversee department safety, ergonomics, maintenance, cleanliness, and a professional work environment.
Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures in accordance with Quest Diagnostics guidelines; review the SOP manual biannually and identify needed revisions or additional procedures.
Ensure applicable federal, state, and local licensing requirements are met in coordination with QA and Medical Director offices.
Ensure documentation is complete and reviewed as required for inspections and audits.
Ensure employees meet compliance guidelines, receive adequate training, and complete annual competency requirements.
Monitor incoming workflow from Logistics and make changes as needed to ensure technical departments receive an adequate supply of specimens.
Where applicable, supervise packing and shipping specimens to other laboratories in accordance with IATA regulations and ensure specimens meet integrity criteria for accurate, timely results.
Monitor special handling of Jeopardized Clients, Hospital Clients, and Vital Specimens to prevent mishandled specimens or patient requisitions.
Lead employee relations, scheduling, onboarding, team meetings, coaching, performance management, and succession planning; track or enter employee time and attendance where applicable.
Promote a participative work environment, encourage employee involvement, and communicate essential information to departmental staff in a timely manner.
Prepare month-end reports and investigate, resolve, and respond appropriately and promptly to internal and external customer issues.
Prepare employee schedules and maintain adequate department coverage and supply inventory.
Ensure continuous process improvement and standardization initiatives are implemented by established deadlines.
Participate in interviewing, selecting, and hiring new employees; coach, develop, supervise, and counsel staff; provide corrective action as required and administer annual performance reviews.
Assist with departmental fiscal responsibilities, including cost containment, overtime management, standardization initiatives, and capital expenditure needs assessment.
Participate in Quest Management System and Process Improvement Teams or other initiatives to meet business objectives.
Organize and lead projects within the workgroup and with cross-functional groups, and meet deadlines assigned by the manager.
Work effectively with technical departments to resolve problems and foster cooperation and continuous improvement.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical, supplemental health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees who work 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost health assessment program.
Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one “MyDay” off.
FinFit financial coaching and services.
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
Employee stock purchase plan.
Life and disability insurance, with a buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.
Potential annual performance bonus compensation.