Operational Excellence Lead – Laboratory Operations

About the role

The role of Operational Excellence Lead, Laboratory Operations is available within Abbott's Abbott Rapid Diagnostics division based in Gretna, Louisiana. This is an onsite role.

Responsibilities

• Lead enterprise-wide operational excellence initiatives that improve laboratory performance, throughput, turnaround time, and cost efficiency.
• Translate strategic objectives into executable programs with defined scope, milestones, risks, budgets, and measurable outcomes.
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize laboratory workflows across accessioning, screening, confirmation, and reporting processes.
• Identify and eliminate process bottlenecks, waste, and redundancies to improve cycle times and operational capacity.
• Standardize and harmonize processes across laboratory locations to support consistency, quality, and scalability.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through labor optimization, improved reagent utilization, and enhanced equipment efficiency.
• Build business cases and financial analyses that support automation, process improvement, and operational investments.
• Measure, track, and communicate operational KPIs, cost savings, and performance improvement results.
• Identify and implement automation opportunities, including digital workflows, robotics, system integrations, and auto-verification solutions.
• Partner with IT and engineering teams to enhance Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and data workflows.
• Reduce manual processes while improving data accuracy, process reliability, and operational visibility.
• Utilize data analytics and reporting tools, including Power BI, to inform decision-making and monitor performance trends.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives involving laboratory operations, quality, IT, MRO, and external stakeholders.
• Manage complex projects across multiple sites, ensuring key milestones, timelines, and deliverables are achieved.
• Coach teams in continuous improvement methodologies and project execution practices.
• Support regulatory compliance and quality programs that maintain data integrity and chain-of-custody requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Life Sciences, Chemistry, Medical Technology, Information Technology, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in laboratory operations, manufacturing, quality, project management, continuous improvement, or operational excellence.
• Experience applying Lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience leading cross-functional projects and driving measurable operational improvements.
• Experience working in regulated operating environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a related discipline.
• Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification.
• Experience in drug testing, toxicology, diagnostics, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or other regulated laboratory environments.
• Experience delivering measurable cost savings through process optimization and automation initiatives.
• Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Experience using Power BI or similar analytics platforms to monitor operational performance and support business decisions.

Benefits

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives : https://abbottbenefits.com/

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to employee diversity.