Assistant Director of Pathology - Main Laboratory

DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:

The Assistant Director of Pathology serves as a key operational and leadership partner to the Director of Pathology. This position is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Main Hospital Laboratory and affiliated outpatient draw stations. The Assistant Director provides independent leadership in employee relations, staff development, workflow oversight, regulatory readiness, problem resolution, and operational support while ensuring high-quality patient care, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction. The Assistant Director serves as a primary resource for laboratory leadership and staff, supports regulatory and quality initiatives, assists with strategic projects, and acts on behalf of the Director as delegated.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Operational Leadership

• Oversee daily laboratory operations and workflow throughout the Main Hospital Laboratory and affiliated outpatient draw stations.
• Monitor staffing needs and workflow efficiency to ensure appropriate laboratory coverage and timely patient service.
• Assess operational challenges and implement solutions independently to maintain service excellence.
• Provide direct technical and operational support to laboratory staff and leadership as needed.
• Serve as a resource for managers, section leaders, and staff regarding laboratory processes, procedures, and problem resolution.
• Participate in after-hours issue resolution and operational decision-making as required.
• Maintain awareness of laboratory volumes, turnaround times, staffing effectiveness, and service expectations.

Employee Relations and Human Resources Support

• Lead recruitment efforts including candidate screening, interviewing, selection, and onboarding processes.
• Coordinate lab orientation and training programs for new laboratory employees.
• Ensure employee personnel files remain complete, accurate, and compliant with organizational, regulatory, and accreditation requirements.
• Monitor and maintain employee compliance requirements including: Annual competencies, Licensure and certification verification, employee health requirements, influenza vaccinations, FIT testing, education and training documentation
• Address employee concerns and workplace issues in a professional and timely manner.
• Conduct coaching, counseling, performance improvement plans, and corrective actions as appropriate.
• Assist leaders with performance evaluations and employee development planning.
• Promote employee engagement and a positive work culture.

Regulatory Compliance and Policy Management

• Support ongoing compliance with all applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements including CLIA, Joint Commission, DNV, OSHA, state regulations, etc.
• Participate in regulatory inspections, surveys, and accreditation activities.
• Assist leadership in maintaining laboratory readiness for inspections at all times.
• Review, revise, and update laboratory policies and procedures as needed.
• Ensure policies remain current, evidence-based, and aligned with organizational standards.
• Conduct compliance audits related to laboratory operations and personnel requirements.

Quality and Patient Service Support

• Investigate patient complaints, physician concerns, specimen issues, and result-related inquiries.
• Collaborate with laboratory leaders, providers, and other departments to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Assist with resolution of billing concerns and laboratory service issues.
• Ensure concerns involving patient testing and result integrity are thoroughly evaluated and appropriately documented.
• Support patient safety initiatives and departmental performance improvement efforts.
• Monitor service quality and identify opportunities for operational improvement.

Staff Oversight and Compliance Monitoring

• Conduct routine audits of staff compliance with dress code requirements, PPE standards, safety practices, and infection prevention requirements
• Ensure corrective action and follow-up occur when deficiencies are identified.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and professionalism throughout the laboratory.

Leadership Development and Team Support

• Provide guidance, mentorship, education, and support to laboratory staff and leaders.
• Assist with technical training and competency development.
• Collaborate with section leaders and managers to identify educational opportunities and operational improvements.
• Foster teamwor