Lab Operations Manager Laboratory Diagnostics – Phoenix, AZ

Are you a results-driven leader with a passion for operational excellence in the clinical laboratory space? We are seeking a Lab Operations Manager to oversee and elevate the day-to-day functions of a high-performing diagnostics laboratory in Phoenix, AZ. This is a critical leadership role responsible for managing laboratory workflows, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and optimizing team performance to deliver accurate and timely diagnostic results. If you excel at balancing clinical quality with operational efficiency, we invite you to bring your expertise to this impactful position.

Lead Laboratory Excellence in Phoenix, AZ

An established and rapidly growing laboratory diagnostics organization in Phoenix, AZ is looking for a Lab Operations Manager to drive strategic initiatives, enhance lab efficiency, and uphold the highest quality standards. The ideal candidate brings hands-on leadership experience in a clinical lab setting, deep knowledge of lab operations and compliance, and a commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This is your opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge diagnostics while shaping the future of healthcare delivery in a thriving market.

Key Responsibilities of the Lab Operations Manager – Laboratory Diagnostics

Operational Oversight:
Manage daily laboratory operations to ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality diagnostic testing. Oversee workflow processes, staff scheduling, resource allocation, and equipment maintenance to maintain peak lab efficiency and productivity.

Quality Assurance & Compliance:
Ensure adherence to all regulatory and accreditation standards, including CLIA, CAP, OSHA, and HIPAA. Implement and monitor quality control programs, conduct internal audits, and lead initiatives for continuous quality improvement across all lab services.

Team Leadership & Development:
Lead, mentor, and manage a team of laboratory professionals, including medical technologists, technicians, and support staff. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth through performance evaluations, training programs, and team-building strategies.

Process Improvement & Efficiency:
Analyze operational performance metrics to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions for greater efficiency. Introduce automation, lean practices, and process innovations to reduce turnaround time and improve service delivery.

Inventory & Equipment Management:
Oversee procurement and inventory of reagents, supplies, and laboratory instruments. Ensure all lab equipment is properly calibrated, maintained, and functioning to deliver consistent and reliable results.

Budgeting & Resource Planning:
Assist in developing and managing laboratory budgets, controlling expenses, and forecasting resource needs. Collaborate with finance and executive leadership to align operational spending with organizational goals.

Collaboration & Communication:
Act as a liaison between the laboratory and other departments, physicians, vendors, and external stakeholders. Ensure smooth coordination and timely communication regarding lab results, process updates, and issue resolution.

Regulatory Preparedness & Risk Mitigation:
Lead the lab’s readiness for inspections and audits by regulatory agencies. Develop and enforce policies and procedures that reduce risk and ensure safety for both staff and patients.

Technology Integration & Data Management:
Support implementation and optimization of Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) and other technologies. Leverage data analytics for operational insights, reporting accuracy, and performance improvements.

Customer Service & Patient-Centric Care:
Promote a patient-first mindset by ensuring exceptional service standards, accurate reporting, and responsive support to clinicians and healthcare providers.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Lab Operations Manager – Laboratory Diagnostics, the client is seeking an experienced, highly organized professional with a strong background in managing complex laboratory environments. You should be an operational leader who thrives in fast-paced healthcare settings and is committed to delivering high-quality diagnostic services while ensuring compliance, efficiency, and team performance.

Proven Leadership in Laboratory Operations

The ideal candidate will bring substantial experience in clinical or diagnostic laboratory management, with a proven ability to lead teams, streamline processes, and maintain exceptional service standards. Experience in managing high-throughput laboratories and implementing scalable operations is highly valued.

Operational Expertise with a Quality-First Mindset

You should have a deep understanding of laboratory workflows, quality control systems, and regulatory requirements (CLIA, CAP, OSHA, etc.). The client seeks a candidate who can ensure accurate and timely test results while maintaining full compliance with accreditation standards and patient safety protocols.

Strategic Problem Solver and Process Optimizer

The client is looking for someone who can assess lab operations with a strategic lens—identifying areas for improvement, introducing efficiencies, and implementing best practices to enhance productivity and reduce turnaround time. Lean Six Sigma or similar process improvement experience is a strong plus.

Strong Leadership and Team Development Skills

Your ability to inspire, lead, and mentor a diverse team of laboratory professionals is essential. The client values a leader who fosters a positive work culture, promotes collaboration, and ensures ongoing professional development and engagement across all staff levels.

Financial and Resource Management Acumen

Experience in budgeting, cost control, inventory management, and vendor relations is key. You should be able to manage lab operations within financial parameters while planning for future growth and resource needs.

Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills

You should be comfortable acting as a liaison between laboratory staff, physicians, administrators, and external partners. Strong written and verbal communication skills are critical to maintaining effective workflows, resolving issues, and supporting cross-functional initiatives.

Commitment to Innovation and Technology Integration

The client values a candidate who embraces laboratory technology and data analytics. Experience with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS), automation tools, and data-driven decision-making will position you for success in this role.

Focus on Safety, Compliance, and Risk Mitigation

A clear understanding of lab safety protocols, regulatory inspections, and risk management practices is essential. The ideal candidate proactively identifies and addresses potential compliance risks to ensure the highest level of operational integrity.

FAQs About the Role – Lab Operations Manager – Laboratory Diagnostics – Phoenix, AZ

1. What are the key responsibilities of the Lab Operations Manager in this role?
As the Lab Operations Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the diagnostic laboratory, ensuring accurate and timely test results, compliance with all regulatory standards (CLIA, CAP, OSHA, etc.), and optimal use of resources. You will also lead process improvements, manage personnel and staffing, maintain quality assurance protocols, and collaborate with physicians and administrative leaders to support patient care and organizational goals.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, or a related field (a master’s degree or MBA is preferred). You should also hold certification as an MT/MLS (ASCP or equivalent) and have several years of progressive laboratory management experience. Experience with regulatory inspections, staff supervision, budgeting, and lab information systems (LIS) is critical.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
The client is looking for a proactive, detail-oriented leader who can balance strategic oversight with hands-on management. You should be skilled at team development, workflow optimization, and cross-functional communication. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities are a must, along with a commitment to quality and patient safety.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
You may face challenges such as adapting to high testing volumes, maintaining compliance during audits, managing limited resources, and leading change in a dynamic healthcare environment. Additionally, ensuring consistent staff performance and keeping up with technological advancements in diagnostics will be essential aspects of the role.

5. What is the expected impact of the Lab Operations Manager on laboratory performance?
As Lab Operations Manager, you will play a key role in improving lab efficiency, maintaining turnaround time standards, enhancing staff productivity, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Your leadership will directly influence patient outcomes, operational effectiveness, and the overall reputation of the laboratory.

6. What is the work environment and culture like?
The laboratory promotes a culture of collaboration, precision, and continuous improvement. The team values accountability, respect, and professional development. You’ll be working in a fast-paced clinical environment where quality and patient care are top priorities, and where innovation and proactive leadership are encouraged.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Lab Operations Manager – Laboratory Diagnostics in Phoenix, AZ, you can expect a competitive compensation package that reflects your experience, leadership skills, and the strategic importance of this role in clinical operations. The remuneration package typically includes:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a Lab Operations Manager in a diagnostic or hospital laboratory setting typically ranges from $90,000 to $130,000 per year, depending on factors such as:

Size and scope of the laboratory
Level of responsibility
Years of experience
Certifications and education
Regional market benchmarks

Experienced candidates managing high-volume or multi-disciplinary labs may command higher compensation.

2. Performance-Based Incentives

In addition to base pay, many organizations offer annual performance bonuses linked to key performance indicators (KPIs) such as:

Operational efficiency
Regulatory compliance
Turnaround times (TAT)
Staff retention and engagement
Budget management

Bonuses typically range from 10% to 20% of base salary, depending on the institution’s policies and the manager’s performance.

3. Benefits Package

You can expect a comprehensive benefits package which may include:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans (401k or 403b) with employer contributions
Paid time off (PTO), sick leave, and holidays
Life and disability insurance
Continuing education or certification reimbursement
Access to employee wellness programs

4. Relocation Assistance

If you are moving from out of state or over a significant distance, some employers may offer relocation support, which can include:

Reimbursement for moving expenses
Temporary housing
Travel allowances for house-hunting

This is typically offered on a case-by-case basis depending on the urgency of the hire and your experience level.

5. Career Advancement Opportunities

In addition to financial compensation, this role offers strong growth potential. Successful Lab Operations Managers may move into senior leadership roles such as:

Director of Laboratory Services
VP of Clinical Operations
Hospital Administration

These roles come with increased responsibility and higher compensation.

Total Compensation Outlook

Considering base salary, performance bonuses, and benefits, the total annual compensation for a Lab Operations Manager in Phoenix, AZ can range from approximately $100,000 to $160,000, depending on experience and organizational structure.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced and results-oriented professional with a strong background in laboratory operations and diagnostics, we invite you to apply for the Lab Operations Manager position in Phoenix, AZ. This is a valuable opportunity to lead critical lab functions, ensure operational excellence, and drive quality patient outcomes in a dynamic healthcare environment.

To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter outlining your expertise in laboratory management, regulatory compliance, staff leadership, and process optimization. Highlight your experience managing diagnostic labs, driving operational efficiency, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety.

This role offers a rewarding career path where you can make a meaningful impact on healthcare delivery while advancing your leadership journey in clinical laboratory services. Apply today to take the next step as a Lab Operations Manager in Phoenix, AZ!

For more details or to explore similar opportunities in laboratory diagnostics leadership, please visit our Laboratory Diagnostics Recruiting Experts page.

Job Category: Laboratory Diagnostics

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Phoenix

Lab Operations Manager Laboratory Diagnostics – Phoenix, AZ