Director of Lab Operations

About the Organization

Our client is a nationally recognized clinical diagnostics laboratory known for scientific excellence, innovation, and a culture that values long-term employee growth. Many members of the leadership team began their careers in technical or supervisory roles and have advanced through internal promotions — a testament to the organization’s commitment to developing talent from within.

This stability, coupled with a forward-thinking approach to laboratory science, makes it an ideal environment for professionals who want to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in the field of clinical diagnostics.

Position Overview

The Director of Laboratory Operations will provide strategic and operational leadership across all laboratory departments within a CLIA-regulated environment. This role is responsible for ensuring quality, compliance, and efficiency while supporting continuous improvement and innovation.

The Director will directly oversee eight Technical Supervisors, each managing a key department, along with their assistant supervisors and approximately 130 bench-level technologists and scientists. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in Microbiology, proven leadership in large-scale lab operations, and a collaborative management style aligned with a culture that emphasizes growth and internal advancement.

Organizational Structure & Reporting

• Direct Reports: Eight (8) Technical Supervisors – one for each laboratory department
• Departments Include:
• Microbiology (largest department)
• Chemistry
• Chromatography
• Molecular
• Immunology
• Laboratory Support Services
• Additional supporting units (as applicable)
• Each department also includes an Assistant Technical Supervisor.
• The Director oversees approximately 130 laboratory staff across first and second shifts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor Technical Supervisors and their teams to achieve excellence in laboratory operations.
• Partner closely with the Chief Scientific Officer as a strategic advisor and operational leader.
• Oversee daily operations across multiple departments to ensure full compliance with CLIA and other regulatory requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, turnaround time, and operational efficiency.
• Support assay development and the implementation of new testing methodologies in partnership with R&D.
• Collaborate with Quality and Compliance teams to maintain audit readiness and consistent performance.
• Promote cross-departmental collaboration and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a positive, high-performance culture rooted in integrity, teamwork, and respect.
• Champion innovation and the use of automation to improve productivity and consistency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Microbiology, or related life sciences required.
• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience in a clinical or diagnostic laboratory.
• Proven success managing large technical teams (100+ employees).
• Expertise in CLIA regulations and laboratory compliance.
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma or similar process improvement methodologies preferred.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Must be willing to relocate to Asheville, NC (relocation assistance provided).

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience and education).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Relocation assistance available.
• Significant opportunities for growth within a stable, well-respected organization that promotes from within.