Laboratory Manager / Lab Leader

Newly Launched Pathology Laboratory | New Jersey

Overview

A rapidly growing, national physician-led healthcare organization has recently expanded its footprint in New Jersey through the addition of a large, multi-site urology practice. The organization now supports 25 practices with 61 physicians, generating approximately $250M in annual revenue, with growth expected to double within the next 18 months.

To support this expansion, the organization is seeking a Laboratory Manager / Lab Leader to build and lead a new pathology laboratory from the ground up. This is a hands-on, entrepreneurial leadership role responsible for establishing operations, building a high-performing team, and ensuring regulatory compliance while delivering high-quality diagnostic services.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations & Compliance

Lead all pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic laboratory operations, including histology, cytology, and clinical lab functions.
Ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, OSHA, and HIPAA requirements.
Oversee laboratory validations, proficiency testing, QA/QC programs, and accreditation.
Serve as the primary operational contact for equipment, workflow optimization, and test implementation.

People Leadership

Hire, onboard, and lead a laboratory team of approximately 10–12 associates.
Manage staffing, scheduling, productivity, and payroll verification.
Conduct performance evaluations and support employee development and retention.

Strategic & Administrative Partnership

Partner closely with the Laboratory Director, Pathologists, and operational leadership to support clinical needs and drive growth.
Manage vendor relationships, inventory, and supply ordering within budget.
Support lab launch milestones, including equipment delivery, training, and validation.
Provide oversight for future growth, including potential satellite lab operations.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (required).
Minimum of five (5) years of clinical laboratory experience, including leadership or management responsibilities.
Experience in hospital-based, commercial, entrepreneurial, or biopharma laboratory environments.
Demonstrated ability to build teams, implement processes, and operate in fast-paced, growth-stage settings.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills with comfort collaborating closely with physicians.
Ability to balance hands-on technical work with strategic leadership.
Willingness to provide off-shift or weekend coverage as operational needs require.

Opportunity

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead the launch of a new pathology laboratory at a pivotal moment of expansion. The Laboratory Manager / Lab Leader will play a critical role in establishing clinical excellence, building a high-performing team, and supporting physicians with timely, high-quality diagnostic services that directly impact patient care and long-term growth.