Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist - Core Lab

Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare , a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St.Francis also delivers advanced heart,orthopedic, and women’s care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.

Job Summary

The Lead Medical Technologist is responsible for overseeing laboratory testing procedures, ensuring quality control, and coordinating workflow in assigned laboratory sections. This role includes performing complex diagnostic tests, training and mentoring staff, and assisting with regulatory compliance and quality assurance initiatives. The Lead Medical Technologist serves as a key resource in problem-solving, troubleshooting, and ensuring laboratory efficiency while maintaining compliance with established protocols.

Essential Functions

• Oversee daily laboratory operations, ensuring workflow efficiency and adherence to testing protocols
• Perform complex laboratory tests in areas such as chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and blood banking
• Assist with troubleshooting equipment, instrument calibration, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance
• Monitor quality control measures, review results for accuracy, and initiate corrective actions as needed
• Provide technical guidance and training to laboratory staff, including Medical Lab Technologists and Technicians
• Assist in developing and implementing new testing procedures and protocols
• Conduct competency assessments for laboratory staff and ensure documentation is complete and up-to-date
• Coordinate laboratory inventory management, including ordering reagents and supplies
• Review laboratory data for accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance prior to reporting results
• Participate in proficiency testing, continuing education, and performance improvement initiatives

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Advanced knowledge of laboratory testing procedures, quality control, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., CLIA, CAP, OSHA)
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to train and mentor staff
• Proficiency in laboratory instrumentation, data analysis, and diagnostic software
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in laboratory testing and data reporting
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field required
• Completion of a NAACLS-accredited Medical Laboratory Science program preferred

Licenses/Certifications

• Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), American Association of Bio analysts (AAB), or American Medical Technologists (AMT) required
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification preferred

Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of clinical laboratory experience in a hospital or diagnostic laboratory setting required
• Experience in high complexity testing, quality control, and leadership responsibilities preferred