Lead Laboratory Technician (CLS/MLS) - Specimen Management (UVA Core Laboratory)

Laboratory operations depend on accuracy, efficiency, and strong leadership at every step of the testing process. As the Lab Lead Technician, Specimen Management, you will play a critical role in ensuring specimens are received, processed, routed, and managed correctly while serving as a key operational leader for the evening and night shift team. 

This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead front-end laboratory operations during a transformative period for UVA Health's Core Laboratory. You'll help guide workflow improvements, support team development, and influence how critical laboratory processes evolve as automation systems are rebuilt and expanded. For experienced specimen processing professionals seeking leadership responsibility, operational impact, and long-term career growth, this role offers a unique next step. 

The Role 

As a lead member of the Specimen Management team, you will oversee evening and night shift specimen receiving and processing operations while remaining actively engaged in the daily work of the department. This is a hands-on leadership role where you will provide guidance, quality oversight, problem-solving support, and workflow coordination in a dynamic laboratory environment. 

You will serve as a primary resource for staff, helping ensure specimens are processed accurately and efficiently while maintaining alignment with managers, supervisors, and fellow laboratory leaders. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Overseeing evening and night shift specimen management operations within the Core Lab 

• Receiving, accessioning, processing, centrifuging, aliquoting, and routing specimens to appropriate testing destinations 

• Providing day-to-day leadership, coaching, and support for laboratory support staff 

• Training new team members and reinforcing best practices for quality and safety 

• Monitoring work quality and helping prevent, identify, and correct processing errors 

• Serving as a key decision-maker for evening shift workflow management 

• Supporting operational continuity during major laboratory transformation initiatives 

• Assisting with the development and implementation of manual workflows during automation system transitions 

• Collaborating across shifts to communicate process changes and operational priorities 

• Helping prepare laboratory operations for future multi-site service models 

This role requires strong specimen-processing expertise, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to lead confidently in a fast-paced environment. Candidates who enjoy balancing hands-on laboratory work with leadership responsibilities will find meaningful opportunities to make an impact. 

Why UVA Health 

UVA Health is one of the nation's leading academic health systems, combining exceptional patient care, innovative research, advanced technology, and a culture committed to continuous improvement. Every specimen processed supports critical diagnostic and treatment decisions that directly affect patient outcomes across the organization. 

What makes this opportunity particularly compelling: 

• Lead evening and night shift operations during a major laboratory transformation initiative 

• Play an active role in redesigning workflows as automation systems are rebuilt and expanded 

• Gain valuable leadership experience without requiring a Clinical Laboratory Scientist credential 

• Influence operational decisions and process improvements that directly impact laboratory performance 

• Work in a highly collaborative environment alongside laboratory leaders, supervisors, and technical professionals 

• Develop expertise across the entire front-end laboratory workflow 

• Enjoy a hands-on leadership role that balances operational oversight with direct laboratory involvement 

• Access professional growth opportunities that can support advancement into laboratory support leadership or operations management 

• Participate in an organization that values education, professional development, and internal career mobility 

• Join a team where emerging leaders are encouraged to grow and expand their responsibilities 

This position is especially attractive for experienced specimen processors, laboratory support professionals, and aspiring leaders seeking a pathway into laboratory operations leadership while continuing to apply their technical expertise every day. 

Why People Love Living in Charlottesville 

Charlottesville offers an exceptional quality of life with the perfect balance of professional opportunity and personal fulfillment. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the region provides easy access to hiking, cycling, vineyards, outdoor recreation, and scenic landscapes while maintaining the amenities of a vibrant and growing community. Residents enjoy an acclaimed culinary scene, arts and cultural events, excellent schools, and the energy that comes from being home to the University of Virginia. For healthcare professionals and their families, Charlottesville delivers an outstanding combination of career growth, community connection, and work-life balance. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT); OR Associate Degree or 60 semester hours with 6 hours in Chemistry and 6 hours in Biology and Accredited MLT Training; OR Bachelor’s in Biology/Chemistry or related science required

Licensure: ASCP certification required within 24 months or military experience equivalent to the ASCP.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Job requires standing, sitting for prolonged periods, frequently traveling, bending/stooping, reaching and repetitive motion. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 20 - 50lbs. May be exposed to fumes, chemicals, radiation, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Retirement Savings
• Long-term and Short-term Disability
• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Certification and Education Support

UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as “High Performing” in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children’s is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.