The Molecular & Validation Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Molecular Department, ensuring high-quality molecular diagnostic testing and regulatory compliance. This role provides leadership in validation studies, quality assurance (QA), and quality control (QC), while optimizing laboratory workflows and personnel management. The Molecular & Validation Manager works closely with senior leadership to drive operational efficiency, maintain regulatory adherence, and promote continuous improvement in molecular diagnostics.
Working Relationships1. Reports To: Vice President of Technical Support2. Directly Supervises: Molecular Laboratory Staff3. Indirectly Supervises: Not Applicable4. Type of Supervision Received: General Direction5. Internal Relationships: Extensive6. External Relationships: Moderate
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Oversee daily molecular laboratory operations, including workflow optimization and resource management.
- Ensure timely and accurate molecular diagnostic testing in compliance with CAP, CLIA, and state regulations.
- Develop and implement operational strategies to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround time.
- Supervise and support laboratory staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
- Manage inventory, supplies, and vendor relationships to ensure uninterrupted laboratory function.
- Performs tasks of Molecular Technologist in his/her absence.
- Lead validation studies for new molecular assays, instruments, and workflows.
- Prepare and submit comprehensive validation reports for regulatory review and approval.
- Ensure adherence to CAP, CLIA, and state regulatory requirements for all molecular testing procedures.
- Maintain thorough validation documentation and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) as required.
- Participate in regulatory inspections and audits, ensuring laboratory readiness and compliance.
Quality Assurance & Quality Control
- Oversee QA/QC programs, including proficiency testing, internal audits, and compliance monitoring.
- Implement and maintain robust quality control measures to ensure result accuracy and reliability.
- Identify and resolve non-conformances, deviations, and compliance risks.
- Regularly review and revise SOPs to align with best practices and evolving regulatory standards.
Personnel Training & Development
- Train and mentor laboratory personnel on validation procedures, QA/QC protocols, and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct competency assessments and develop training materials to ensure staff proficiency.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning, professional development, and teamwork within the department.
- Provide performance feedback and participate in personnel evaluations.
Professional Requirements
- Adheres to dress code, maintaining a neat and professional appearance.
- Completes annual educational and continuing education requirements.
- Ensures patient confidentiality at all times.
- Maintains current knowledge of laboratory policies and regulatory requirements.
- Reports on time and completes tasks within designated deadlines.
- Represents the organization in a positive and professional manner.
- Actively participates in departmental meetings and performance improvement initiatives.
- Complies with all organizational policies and ethical business practices.
Education, Experience, and Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
- Minimum of 10+ years of experience in molecular diagnostics, including laboratory management and validation.
- Strong knowledge of CAP, CLIA, and state regulatory requirements.
- Proven experience in validation studies, data analysis, and regulatory reporting.
- Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Strong technical writing skills for preparing validation and regulatory reports.
- Ability to work in a high-complexity laboratory environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- ASCP certified Technologist in Molecular Biology
- Strong background in Cancer Genomics