We are seeking an experienced Laboratory Manager for a permanent, full-time opportunity in Willits, California, nestled in the scenic Mendocino County region of Northern California.
This day-shift leadership position offers competitive compensation of up to $189,121 annually and the opportunity to oversee clinical laboratory operations in a hospital environment.
The ideal candidate is an experienced laboratory professional with strong clinical expertise, knowledge of regulatory compliance, and the leadership skills needed to support high-quality diagnostic testing and laboratory performance.
Position Highlights
- Permanent, full-time leadership opportunity
- Day shift, 8-hour shifts
- Annual salary up to $189,121, depending on qualifications and experience
- Oversee multidisciplinary clinical laboratory operations
- Lead laboratory personnel, workflow, and departmental performance
- Manage budgets, resources, and equipment planning
- Support accreditation, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance initiatives
- Opportunity to live and work in beautiful Mendocino County
Responsibilities
- Direct daily clinical laboratory operations across multiple testing disciplines
- Provide leadership, guidance, and oversight to laboratory personnel
- Manage staffing, departmental workflow, and operational efficiency
- Develop, implement, and maintain laboratory policies, procedures, and quality standards
- Oversee departmental budgets, resource allocation, and financial performance
- Ensure compliance with applicable state and federal regulations and laboratory accreditation standards
- Monitor laboratory quality assurance, quality control, and performance improvement initiatives
- Oversee testing procedures and maintain standards for accuracy, reliability, and patient safety
- Evaluate laboratory equipment needs and participate in equipment selection and implementation
- Support staff training, professional development, and competency requirements
- Collaborate with physicians, hospital leadership, and other healthcare departments
- Identify opportunities to improve laboratory efficiency, testing quality, and patient care outcomes
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field required
- Active California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license required
- Applicable ASCP certification required
- Master's degree preferred
- Five or more years of clinical laboratory experience preferred
- At least one year of laboratory leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Strong knowledge of laboratory regulations, accreditation standards, and quality assurance
- Experience with laboratory operations, personnel management, and departmental budgeting
- Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and promote high standards of laboratory performance
Life in Willits, California
Located in the heart of Mendocino County, Willits offers a peaceful Northern California lifestyle surrounded by redwood forests, scenic valleys, and beautiful mountain landscapes.
Known as the Gateway to the Redwoods, Willits provides convenient access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring the region's state parks and natural attractions.
The community features a historic downtown, locally owned shops and restaurants, farmers markets, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Residents can also enjoy the famous Skunk Train, which offers scenic excursions through the region's redwood forests.
Willits is within driving distance of the Mendocino Coast, where rugged Pacific Ocean scenery, charming coastal communities, and outdoor adventures await.
For experienced laboratory professionals seeking a leadership opportunity away from the congestion of larger metropolitan areas, Willits offers an appealing combination of career advancement, natural beauty, and small-town living.